Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has provided a crucial clarification regarding the government's Sanchar Saathi application, stating that the cybersecurity tool is entirely optional for mobile phone users and does not facilitate surveillance.
Minister's Direct Statement on App's Optional Nature
Addressing reporters outside Parliament, Minister Scindia explicitly stated that the Sanchar Saathi app is not compulsory. "The app is completely optional. If you want to delete it, you can," he said. He further emphasized user choice, adding, "If you don't wish to register, you shouldn’t register and can remove it anytime." The minister also directly addressed privacy concerns, asserting that the application does not enable snooping or call monitoring.
Clarification Follows Report on Pre-Installation Order
Scindia's statement comes in response to a recent Reuters report which claimed that the government had issued an order to major smartphone manufacturers. According to the report, the order dated November 28 gave companies 90 days to ensure the Sanchar Saathi app is pre-installed on new phones, with a provision that users could not disable it. The report also indicated that for devices already in the supply chain, manufacturers should push the app via over-the-air software updates.
Government's Purpose for the Sanchar Saathi App
The Union government has consistently promoted the Sanchar Saathi app as a tool designed to enhance user security. According to official statements, the app serves multiple protective functions:
- Helping prevent cyber threats.
- Assisting in tracking and blocking lost or stolen phones.
- Aiding police in tracing devices.
- Keeping counterfeit phones out of the black market.
The minister's clarification aims to balance these security objectives with user autonomy and privacy, assuring the public that installation and use remain a personal choice.
