Big Row Over Centre’s Sanchar Saathi Directive to Phonemakers (2025)
A major political and technological controversy has erupted in 2025 after the central government directed all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every new handset sold in India. The move, issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has ignited intense debate, with critics calling it an intrusive step that threatens user privacy and digital freedom.
What the Directive Says
The government’s order requires:
All new smartphones manufactured or imported for sale in India to come pre-loaded with the Sanchar Saathi app.
Existing smartphones to receive the app through software updates provided by manufacturers.
The app is designed to help users verify IMEI numbers, identify fake devices, block lost or stolen phones, and report suspicious telecom activity. Officials describe it as a telecom security tool meant to reduce cyber fraud.
Why the Government Justifies It
According to telecom authorities, India’s massive phone market continues to face issues such as:
Fake or tampered IMEI numbers
Resale of stolen devices
Rising cyber and SIM-based fraud
By mandating the app, the government aims to tighten device verification, strengthen telecom security, and help consumers avoid falling victim to fraudulent activities. Officials maintain that the app is not a surveillance tool, but a user-protection mechanism.
Why It Has Triggered Outrage
Despite the government’s justification, the directive has sparked widespread criticism from:
Opposition parties
Digital rights activists
Cybersecurity experts
Large sections of the public
Key concerns raised:
1. Privacy and Surveillance Fears
Critics argue that forcing a government-made app onto every phone — especially one that may require deep permissions — opens the door to potential monitoring of calls, messages, and user activity.
2. Infringement of Digital Rights
Mandatory installation without explicit user consent is being described as a violation of personal digital autonomy and the right to privacy.
3. Lack of Transparency
There is no detailed public documentation about what data the app collects, how long it stores it, and who has access to it.
4. No Public Consultation
Experts note that such a sweeping policy was announced without consulting consumer groups, cybersecurity specialists, or industry players.
5. Fear of a Surveillance Precedent
Opponents warn that mandating a government app today could set a precedent for future forced installations, normalizing state intrusion into personal devices.
How Phonemakers Are Reacting
The order applies to all major smartphone brands operating in India. Manufacturers have reportedly been given around 90 days to comply, but several global companies have privately expressed concerns about the impact on privacy, device security, and their own ecosystem policies.
Some brands, especially those known for strict privacy frameworks, may push back or seek clarifications before rolling out the update.
Industry and Expert Concerns
Tech industry analysts and cybersecurity experts highlight several red flags:
Mandatory apps can weaken user trust in devices
Such steps may complicate international product compliance
Business models of global brands could be affected
India’s image as a privacy-conscious digital market may take a hit
Many experts warn that telecom security cannot come at the cost of personal privacy and must be balanced with strong safeguards.
Government Clarifications
Amid the rising controversy, officials have clarified that users will be able to uninstall the Sanchar Saathi app, attempting to calm concerns about permanent surveillance or inability to remove the app. However, critics say the concern is not just uninstalling — but the principle of a forced installation in the first place.
What Happens Next
Legal challenges are likely, especially on constitutional grounds related to the right to privacy.
Industry negotiations may push the government to modify or soften the mandate.
Public pressure and digital rights activism could influence the final outcome.
The coming weeks may determine whether the mandate remains, gets revised, or faces judicial scrutiny.
Final Take
The Sanchar Saathi directive sits at the intersection of national security and individual privacy, two sensitive areas that must be carefully balanced. While curbing telecom fraud is an important goal, forcing a government-developed app onto every phone in India raises deep concerns about digital rights, data security, and state overreach.
The debate is far from over — and 2025 may see one of the most significant digital policy battles India has faced so far.
