WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform owned by Meta, has submitted its reply to the Indian government's notice regarding the introduction of a 'username' feature, official sources said on Thursday. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is now examining the response submitted by the messaging app.
Government Scrutiny Intensifies
The notice, issued earlier this year, sought clarifications from WhatsApp on its planned 'username' feature, which would allow users to create unique identifiers instead of sharing phone numbers. The government had raised concerns about potential misuse, including anonymity that could facilitate illegal activities. Sources indicated that the reply was submitted on Thursday, July 9, 2026, and the IT ministry is in the process of reviewing the details provided by WhatsApp.
WhatsApp's Stance
There has been no official statement from WhatsApp regarding the content of its submission. However, the company has previously emphasized its commitment to user safety and compliance with Indian laws. The 'username' feature is part of WhatsApp's broader efforts to enhance privacy, allowing users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers. The government, however, has sought assurances that the feature would not compromise security or enable unlawful activities.
Regulatory Context
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the Indian government and social media platforms over data privacy, traceability, and compliance with local regulations. India, with over 500 million WhatsApp users, is a critical market for the platform. The government has been pushing for greater accountability, including the ability to trace the origin of messages to curb misinformation and crime.
Next Steps
According to sources, the IT ministry will now evaluate WhatsApp's response and may seek further clarifications if needed. The outcome of this review could influence the rollout of the 'username' feature in India. Both parties are expected to continue discussions to address regulatory concerns while balancing user privacy and security.
