Scindia Addresses Privacy Concerns as Users Can Delete Sanchar Saathi App if Desired

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed concerns over a government directive requiring the Sanchar Saathi app to be pre-installed on all smartphones. He clarified that users could delete the app if they wished, and it would remain inactive unless registered. The order, issued on November 28, instructed manufacturers to include the app on new devices and update older ones. Critics viewed this as a potential privacy breach.

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Some smartphone makers, like Apple, reportedly opposed the mandate. Sources indicated Apple planned to discuss the issue with the government to find a compromise, as the current order was deemed unfeasible. Scindia denied allegations of snooping through the app, emphasizing its role in protecting users from fraud and theft.

Privacy Concerns and Opposition

Opposition leaders criticised the mandate, fearing it could enable call monitoring and message interception. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stressed the importance of privacy in communication. Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury sought a parliamentary discussion on the government's directive, highlighting privacy concerns.

The Sanchar Saathi app requires access to call logs, SMS, phone cameras, and notifications. Tech experts noted that apps embedded in operating systems cannot be deleted by users. Some secondary apps might run in the background even if not visible on home screens.

Government's Justification and Industry Response

The government argued that the app is crucial for combating telecom cybersecurity threats from duplicate or spoofed IMEI numbers. IMEI numbers are unique identifiers for mobile devices used to block network access for stolen phones. The Ministry of Communications stated that over 1.5 crore downloads of the app had occurred.

Minister of State for Communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani mentioned discussions with mobile phone manufacturers about the app, except Apple, which did not participate. He explained that Sanchar Saathi is like any other app, allowing users to activate or delete it as needed.

Impact and Future Steps

The government reported that approximately 2.75 crore fraudulent mobile connections were disconnected using Sanchar Saathi. Around 20 lakh stolen phones were traced, with 7.5 lakh returned to users based on public participation through the app.

Industry experts expressed concerns about privacy implications and lack of public consultation before mandating the app's installation. Amol Kulkarni from CUTS International highlighted issues with expecting citizens to trust the government without questioning its intentions.

Despite assurances from Scindia, technology industry expert Akhilesh Shukla noted that no amended order had been issued to clarify whether users could delete the app. The situation remains under scrutiny as stakeholders await further developments.

With inputs from PTI