Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday sought to firmly quell growing privacy concerns surrounding the government’s cybersecurity app Sanchar Saathi, insisting in Parliament that the platform cannot be used to track citizens and poses no threat to user data. His remarks come amid a political backlash over a recent directive ordering smartphone makers to pre-install the app on all new and existing devices.
Why is the Sanchar Saathi app facing backlash?
The controversy began after a government order on November 28 required all mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install the state security app Sanchar Saathi on every phone sold in India. The directive also mandated that the app be pushed to existing devices through software updates and that it be “readily visible and accessible to end users” when first used.
Opposition leaders and digital rights advocates have criticized the mandate as a potential surveillance tool, saying the app can monitor calls and messages. Some smartphone makers — including Apple, according to industry sources — have reportedly expressed reservations and sought discussions with the Centre, saying the order is impractical in its current form.
Sanchar Saathi series of apps: What did Scindia say in Parliament?
Jyotiraditya Scindia categorically denied the allegations during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha.
“No snooping is possible from Sanchar Saathi app, no snooping will happen,” he said, stressing that the app is designed solely for the protection of citizens.
The Union Minister added that the government’s aim is to empower users, not invade their privacy:
“The government wants to put the power in the hands of the people to help them protect themselves.”
Can users delete the Sanchar Saathi app?
Amid the escalating row, Scindia softened the Centre’s stance on mandatory installation, clarifying on Tuesday that users are not required to keep the app.
“If you want to delete it, delete it,” he told reporters outside parliament.
He emphasized that the app remains inactive unless the user chooses to register, countering claims of covert surveillance.
Sanchar Saathi series of apps: What does the government directive require of smartphone manufacturers?
According to the Ministry’s regulation:
The government says the Sanchar Saathi app — known for features like identifying fraudulently obtained SIM cards and reporting lost or stolen devices — is increasing digital security for citizens.
Sanchar Saathi Application Row: What Happens Next?
With growing backlash from online users and manufacturers seeking clarity, consultations between the government and industry players are expected to find a middle ground. But Scindia reiterated the basic message: the app is optional, non-intrusive and designed for public safety.
As he said, “Not everyone in the country knows that this app exists to protect them from fraud and theft.”
