Sanchar Saathi app: Opposition raises concerns over privacy
Cybersecurity or snooping? The Sanchar Saathi app controversy explained
The Centre has recently directed all mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every handset made or imported in India. The Department of Telecommunications issued this mandate in November, giving manufacturers 90 days to comply. The government says the app is designed to protect citizens from cyber fraud, prevent misuse of telecom resources, and help in recovering lost or stolen phones.
Sanchar Saathi is a digital safety initiative by the Ministry of Communications. It provides citizen-focused services through both a mobile app and a web portal. One of its main features is Chakshu, which allows users to report suspected cyber fraud or spam calls. Chakshu can also be used to report malicious links, phishing messages, attempts to clone devices, and malware received via SMS, RCS, iMessage, WhatsApp, Telegram, and other platforms.
The government maintains that Sanchar Saathi is a proactive tool to prevent cybercrime. By reporting suspicious activity, users can help authorities act quickly and protect themselves and others. The Department of Telecommunications says that the app strengthens digital safety and contributes to a more secure telecom ecosystem in India. The Centre has emphasized that the app is for security purposes, not surveillance.
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Opposition concerns and political debate
Despite the government’s explanation, the mandatory installation of the app has led to strong opposition criticism. Congress and other parties argue that the app violates citizens’ privacy and could be used for state surveillance. During the winter session of Parliament, several leaders raised concerns over personal freedom and the potential misuse of the app.
Priyanka Gandhi, a Congress MP, called Sanchar Saathi a “snooping app” that infringes on privacy. She argued that citizens should have the right to send messages and use their phones without government monitoring. She criticized the government, saying it is moving India toward a form of dictatorship by imposing such rules. Priyanka Gandhi highlighted that there is a fine line between preventing fraud and watching all citizens’ phone activity, and she warned that the directive crosses that line.
Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Rajya Sabha MP from Shiv Sena UBT, described the move as a “Big Boss-style surveillance step.” She said the government should focus on creating strong grievance redressal mechanisms instead of attempting to enter individual phones. Chaturvedi warned that such measures will face strong opposition and protests, emphasizing that privacy is a fundamental right.
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The Centre, however, has defended its decision. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the government will discuss the concerns raised by the Opposition. He said the government is already in touch with opposition leaders and is ready to address their concerns in a proper manner. Rijiju dismissed claims of mass surveillance, saying that the Sanchar Saathi app is a security initiative and that opposition leaders should not use the issue to stall Parliament proceedings.
The political debate highlights the growing concern in India over digital privacy and cybersecurity. On one side, the government aims to protect citizens from increasing cyber threats, financial fraud, and phone-related crimes. On the other side, opposition parties warn that mandatory installation of an app without consent could become a tool for monitoring and invading personal privacy. This clash reflects broader debates around technology, privacy, and government oversight in the country.
Experts note that mandatory apps on smartphones are not uncommon globally when aimed at security or public service. However, the effectiveness and ethical implications of such measures often generate debate. In India, where millions rely on smartphones for communication, banking, and business, the Sanchar Saathi directive has attracted special attention. Citizens and privacy advocates are keen to see clear guidelines on how data collected by the app will be handled, stored, and protected.
The Centre has reassured the public that Sanchar Saathi is intended solely for safety and fraud prevention. However, the political and public debate is likely to continue, with the Opposition demanding reassurances on privacy, transparency, and limits to government access. Parliament is expected to discuss these concerns further, with both sides presenting arguments on balancing cybersecurity and citizens’ privacy rights.
In conclusion, the Sanchar Saathi app controversy shows the tension between digital security initiatives and individual privacy rights in India. While the government argues that the app is essential for preventing cybercrime and ensuring safe telecom usage, opposition parties see it as a potential tool for surveillance. The debate continues as India navigates the challenges of technology, security, and protecting citizens’ freedoms in an increasingly digital world.
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