India’s telecom sector is witnessing a major update as the government has directed smartphone companies to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices. The order, issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), aims to help users stay protected from mobile fraud, fake SIM activities, and phone theft.
However, the government has now officially clarified that the Sanchar Saathi app is not mandatory for users. While manufacturers must include the app, citizens can choose whether they want to use it, log in, or delete it.
Why the App Is Being Added to Phones
Sanchar Saathi is a government platform created to give mobile users more control and protection. Through the app, people can:
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Check if a phone’s IMEI is original
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Block or report a stolen phone
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Identify suspicious SIM cards issued using their ID
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Report spam calls and telecom fraud
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Track illegal activities linked to their mobile number
With rising cases of scam calls, SIM misuse, and phone cloning, the government believes wider access to this app will help users act quickly and safely.
Concerns Over Mandatory Use
As soon as the order went public, there was confusion about whether the app would be compulsory. Some users worried it might affect privacy or collect personal data.
Tech experts and privacy groups also questioned the early draft of the mandate, which suggested the app could be “non-removable.”
This led to a wave of questions online, including:
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Is Sanchar Saathi mandatory?
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Is Sanchar Saathi safe?
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Can users uninstall it?
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How is the data used?
Government Issues Clarification
To calm the concerns, Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that:
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Pre-installation is compulsory for phone brands, not for users.
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Users can delete, disable, or ignore the app anytime.
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Sanchar Saathi does not track calls, messages, or location.
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No surveillance features are included.
The minister added that the goal is to strengthen telecom safety—not to monitor users.
App Usage and Safety
Early users of Sanchar Saathi say the app is simple and easy to navigate. It requires minimal permissions and does not request access to private files or personal conversations.
While some people download the app directly from the Play Store, others use it only when needed, such as during SIM misuse alerts or phone theft.
The DoT says all user data is handled with strict security measures and is not shared without consent.
