Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated in the Lok Sabha that the Sanchar Saathi safety app is incapable of enabling any form of surveillance, adding that such concerns are unfounded. His clarification comes amid a growing political dispute over a recent directive requiring smartphone manufacturers to preload the government-developed application on all new devices.
read also: Government Orders Mandatory Pre Installation of Sanchar Saathi App on All New Mobile Devices in India
Addressing the issue during Question Hour, Scindia emphasised that the app exists to enhance user protection. Scindia reiterated that snooping is neither possible nor will ever occur through the Sanchar Saathi platform.
He also confirmed that the ministry is open to modifying the order issued on November 28, depending on public response and feedback.
The Department of Telecommunications had instructed all mobile manufacturers to include the Sanchar Saathi app in devices sold across the country, including older phones through software updates. The order also required companies to ensure the app remains visible and accessible during device setup and that its functions are not restricted.
Opposition parties expressed alarm, suggesting that the directive could enable message monitoring or other privacy intrusions.
Minister of State for Communications Dr Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar countered these accusations, describing the app as a crucial tool for preventing cyber fraud. He urged sceptics to personally examine the application, noting that it offers limited features solely intended for safety. He added that the app has already been downloaded by nearly 1.4 crore users and has been verified by both Apple and Google before appearing on their platforms.
According to him, the app has been designed in multiple Indian languages to support vulnerable groups, including senior citizens and those unfamiliar with technology.
Scindia also reaffirmed that the use of the app remains optional. He explained that anyone who prefers not to use it can simply remove it from their device, emphasising that the system is entirely voluntary and users can activate or delete the app as they choose.
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