Is Sanchar Saathi App Mandatory on Phones? Minister Scindia Clarifies Snooping Allegations
Sanchar Saathi App: The Central Government has recently directed mobile phone manufacturers to mandatorily pre-install the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app on all new smartphones starting from March 2026. Following this directive from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), concerns regarding privacy and potential surveillance began to surface. While sections of the Opposition have labeled this move as an attempt at ‘snooping’, Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia firmly dismissed these allegations while speaking outside Parliament on Tuesday.
Snooping Allegations and Minister’s Clarification
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unequivocally stated that there is absolutely no intention of snooping or call monitoring through this app. Refuting the Opposition’s claims, he said, “There is no snooping or call monitoring. This measure has been taken by the government solely in the interest of citizen safety.”
The Minister further explained that the government is ensuring the app is available on phones to facilitate customers and curb cyber fraud. However, the decision to use it lies entirely with the user.
Can the App be Deleted?
A common question among users has been whether this pre-installed app can be removed. Addressing this, the Minister used a simple analogy to clarify the situation. He stated, “Just as your phone comes with pre-installed apps like Google Maps which you can delete if you wish, you can similarly delete the Sanchar Saathi app.”
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Join on TelegramKey Highlights of the Minister’s Statement:
| Topic | Minister’s Clarification |
|---|---|
| Mandatory Usage | Using the app is not mandatory. |
| Deletion Option | Users can delete the app if they want. |
| Registration | If not registered, the app will remain dormant. |
Why is This App Necessary?
Incidents of cyber fraud and mobile theft are on the rise. Minister Scindia presented statistics revealing that in the year 2024 alone, the country witnessed frauds amounting to approximately ₹22,800 crore. The government has initiated this step primarily to protect common citizens from such massive financial losses and cybercrimes.
“To block lost or stolen phones and to stay safe from fraudsters, this app is a powerful tool. It is the government’s responsibility to distribute this safety mechanism to all users,” the Minister added.
Opposition’s ‘Pegasus’ Jibe
The Opposition has compared the decision to mandate this app with the Israeli spyware ‘Pegasus’, alleging that the government intends to conduct surveillance on citizens. Scindia responded sharply to these accusations. He remarked, “On one hand, the Opposition complains about increasing fraud in the country. On the other hand, when we give Sanchar Saathi to the common citizens for their protection, they cry ‘Pegasus’.”
He further added that those who do not want to see the truth cannot be shown the truth. The government’s primary objective remains customer protection and preventing the misuse of stolen devices, not intruding into personal privacy.
