By The government of India has revoked its directive that would have required smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the state-run cybersecurity app Sanchar Saathi on all new phones — following strong backlash from privacy advocates, opposition parties, and major tech firms.
Initially, companies such as Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi were told to preload the app within 90 days and that it should not be removable. Critics argued the mandate violated user privacy and could enable state surveillance.
After the strong outcry and resistance, the government’s telecom ministry announced that Sanchar Saathi will now remain voluntary — users can choose whether or not to install it. The reversal comes amid concern over data privacy, user consent, and the broader implications of a mandatory, non-removable state app on billions of Indian smartphones.
