Globiscope
India’s government has withdrawn its directive requiring smartphone makers to preload a state-run cybersecurity app on all new devices. The decision came after strong backlash from politicians, global tech companies, and privacy advocates who feared increased surveillance.
The Modi administration had privately instructed Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and others to install the non-removable Sanchar Saathi app within 90 days. Reuters first revealed this plan earlier in the week.
However, the communications ministry reversed course on Wednesday, stating that pre-installation would no longer be mandatory.
Political Pressure and Industry Pushback
The reversal followed intense protests from opposition parties and civil rights groups. Moreover, several manufacturers, including Apple and Samsung, had already decided not to comply, according to insiders.
Just one day earlier, government officials defended the app, arguing that it helps track and block stolen phones and prevents misuse. Even so, widespread criticism forced the government to reconsider.
The ministry now says the app is gaining popularity organically, which prompted the policy change.
Data from Sensor Tower shows that daily downloads of Sanchar Saathi rose 13%, reaching 78,000 on Monday.
Privacy Concerns Fuel the U-Turn
The policy reversal is seen as a rare setback for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. It mirrors a similar retreat last year when India rolled back its laptop import licensing policy after pressure from the United States.
Earlier on Wednesday, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala demanded an explanation in Parliament. He questioned the legal basis for forcing a “non-removable app” on citizens.
He warned that such an app could contain a backdoor, putting user data and privacy at risk.
The Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) welcomed the withdrawal but said it was awaiting a formal legal order to confirm the change.
Global Context and Past Criticism
This policy had little precedent worldwide. Russia is one of the few countries to mandate a state-controlled app—its MAX messenger—on all mobile devices.
Modi’s administration has faced privacy criticism before. In 2020, the government required workers to use a Covid-19 contact-tracing app. After public outcry, the requirement was softened to a voluntary request.
cybersecurity
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- Rare policy reversal by the Modi government.
- Opposition parties and tech companies questioned legality.
- Government cites growing app popularity as reason for rollback.
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