Story perspectives

India Mandates Sanchar Saathi App Amid Privacy Concerns

12/2/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Indian government has mandated that all smartphones manufactured or imported for India must have the Sanchar Saathi app preinstalled within 90 days.
The app aims to curb telecom crimes, including theft and fraud.
Critics, including Congress Party leader Priyanka Gandhi, call it a privacy risk and a 'snooping app' that could enable surveillance.
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said the app is for protection and its use remains optional.

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Story summary

The Indian government has mandated that all smartphones manufactured or imported for India must have the Sanchar Saathi app preinstalled within 90 days.
The app aims to curb telecom crimes, including theft and fraud.
Critics, including Congress Party leader Priyanka Gandhi, call it a privacy risk and a 'snooping app' that could enable surveillance.
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said the app is for protection and its use remains optional.