Sanchar Saathi App Mandate - EMINENT MindX AI School

IN NEWS: Sanchar Saathi App Mandate

Why Sanchar Saathi App in News?

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has ordered smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all phones by March 2026.
The directive has triggered political and civil liberty concerns regarding privacy and potential surveillance.
Opposition and digital rights groups have raised objections, while the government defends it as a security measure against spoofed/duplicate IMEI devices.

The move marks one of the rare cases where the Indian government has mandated pre-installation of a specific app on devices.
Concerns relate to privacy, data access, and potential root-level permissions that a pre-installed app might receive.
Questions have emerged about constitutionality, especially in the context of the Puttaswamy judgement (Right to Privacy).
Lack of clarity persists about whether the app will be removable or remain permanently active in devices.

Launched in 2023, originally as a portal for reporting suspicious calls.
Allows users to track all mobile numbers linked to their identity.
Enables blocking of stolen devices using IMEI details to bar them from telecom networks.

Prevent misuse of mobile networks.
Identify fake or cloned IMEI devices.
Help track phones connected to an individual’s mobile number.
Provide citizens an interface to report cyber-fraud and suspicious communication.

Detection and reporting of spam/suspicious calls.
IMEI-based device blocking mechanism for lost phones.
Database-linked access for identifying numbers registered under one identity.
Potential security benefits against telecom network breaches involving duplicate IMEI.

Mandate issued under Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024.
Introduction of Telecommunication Identifier User Entity (TIUE) extended regulation to any entity using phone numbers for identification.
This brings even messaging platforms like WhatsApp under operational regulation.
Constitutional questions may arise due to mandatory pre-installation and lack of opt-out provisions.

Pre-installed system apps may receive root-level privileges, increasing control and risk.
Over-the-air updates could potentially expand permissions without user consent.
Risk of widespread impact in case of security breach due to mass-installed presence.
Debate over voluntary use vs compelled compliance.

Clear official notification on uninstallability and permission transparency.
Independent cyber-security audit and open-source review to build public trust.
Provide opt-in instead of default install, aligning with privacy jurisprudence.
User awareness campaigns on device safety and reporting mechanisms.
Strong data protection protocols with minimal collection policies.

Updated - 03 December 2025; 9: 23 PM | News Source: The Hindu