What is the Controversy Surrounding the 'Sanchar Saathi' App?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The pre-installation directive for the 'Sanchar Saathi' app has ignited a fierce political debate, highlighting concerns over privacy and government overreach in citizens' lives. With opposition parties raising alarms about surveillance, the government's motives remain under scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- Sanchar Saathi is aimed at enhancing cybersecurity for mobile users.
- The app will be pre-installed on phones, raising privacy concerns.
- Opposition claims it represents government overreach.
- The app includes features to combat cyber fraud.
- Critics equate it to surveillance tools.
New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated that all mobile device manufacturers and importers pre-install the cybersecurity app Sanchar Sathi on mobile phones, starting November 28.
The DoT has instructed mobile manufacturers and importers to complete this implementation within 90 days and submit a compliance report within 120 days.
The mandate for the pre-installation of Sanchar Saathi has sparked a significant political uproar, with opposition parties labeling it a "flagrant abuse" of governmental power that infringes on citizens' privacy, with some critics even characterizing it as a surveillance tool.
Amidst the ongoing debate regarding privacy concerns, Union Communication Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia asserted on Tuesday that the app is not obligatory.
Nevertheless, the government's directive emphasizes that this initiative aims to combat the rising incidents of cyber fraud and enhance security.
What is the Sanchar Saathi App?
Sanchar Saathi is a citizen-focused initiative from the DoT designed to empower mobile users, improve their security, and raise awareness about government-led initiatives.
The Sanchar Saathi app, accessible via mobile and web portal, offers various services such as the ability to block lost or stolen devices, verify the authenticity of mobile handsets, flag international calls appearing as local numbers, and inform users about their accredited internet service providers.
Additionally, it includes the 'Chakshu' feature, which alerts users about potential fraud, harmful links, and unsolicited communications.
Why the Controversy Over Sanchar Saathi?
The political turmoil arose after the DoT mandated that all mobile manufacturers and importers pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on devices intended for use in India, describing it as a move to enhance cybersecurity and prevent the misuse of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI).
This notification enforces the Sanchar Saathi feature on all smartphones, requiring manufacturers to ensure that the app is accessible to users during the device setup without any disabling or feature restriction. Manufacturers must also submit a compliance report within 120 days.
Opposition's Outcry
The directive from the Centre has provoked strong reactions from opposition parties, many of whom view it as a direct violation of privacy and an intrusion into personal lives aimed at "intimidating" citizens.
Congress leader KC Venugopal stated, "Big Brother cannot watch us. This DoT direction is unconstitutional."
He added, "A pre-loaded government app that cannot be uninstalled is a dystopian tool for monitoring every Indian, infringing on the constitutional rights of citizens, which will be opposed."
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi criticized the Centre, labeling it a snooping application and accused the ruling party of attempting to transform the nation into a dictatorship.
Congress leader Karti Chidambaram likened the Sanchar Saathi app to Pegasus spyware, calling it "Pegasus ++" and asserting that it represents another effort to invade the private lives of citizens.
He further accused the government of steering the country towards a Russian model.
Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi remarked that this initiative is merely another instance of "Big Brother" surveillance, stating, "Such dubious methods to invade personal devices will be met with resistance; the IT Ministry should prepare for backlash if it prioritizes surveillance over establishing robust redressal systems."
Point of View
We recognize the necessity of cybersecurity measures. However, the backlash against the 'Sanchar Saathi' app underscores a critical need for transparency and public consent in governmental initiatives. Balancing security and privacy is essential in maintaining trust between citizens and the state.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Sanchar Saathi app?
The Sanchar Saathi app aims to empower mobile subscribers, enhance their security, and raise awareness about government initiatives related to cybersecurity.
Is the Sanchar Saathi app mandatory for all users?
While the DoT has directed mobile manufacturers to pre-install the app, Union Communication Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that using the app is not mandatory.
What features does the Sanchar Saathi app offer?
The app provides services such as blocking lost or stolen devices, verifying handset authenticity, flagging international calls, and alerting users to potential fraud and malicious links.
Why is the Sanchar Saathi app controversial?
The controversy stems from concerns that its pre-installation constitutes a violation of privacy, as critics argue it enables government surveillance of citizens.
How have opposition parties reacted to the Sanchar Saathi app directive?
Opposition parties have condemned the directive, with leaders calling it a breach of privacy and an unconstitutional intrusion into personal lives, likening it to surveillance tactics.
