The BRICS TimesShiv Sena UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi Signals Strong Opposition to Mandatory Mobile Phone Pre-Installation of the Sanchar Saathi App.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed mobile handset manufacturers and importers to ensure the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ anti-fraud app is pre-installed. This mandate applies to all new devices. Manufacturers and importers must comply within 90 days. After 90 days from the November 28 directive, all mobile phones made or brought into India must compulsorily have this application.
Surveillance Concerns Raised by MP
This new order has sparked a political controversy. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi reacted strongly to the government’s mandate regarding the Sanchar Sathi App. She called the move “absolutely comical.” According to her, this is just another way to monitor citizens disguised as a pre-installed app. She stated, “This means all activities conducted from a mobile phone can be tracked.” Chaturvedi emphasized that privacy is a fundamental right, and this action attacks that very right. “We are demanding a robust grievance redressal system,” she said. “Instead, you are focusing on a surveillance system.” She questioned the government’s “uncontrolled desire” to “control and monitor people.” “We will strongly oppose this,” she affirmed.
Key Details of the Sanchar Saathi Order
The order clearly states, “The Central Government directs every manufacturer and importer of mobile handsets used in India…” They must “ensure that the Sanchar Sathi mobile application specified by the Department of Telecommunications is pre-installed in all mobile handsets manufactured or imported for use in India” within 90 days. For devices already manufactured and in the sales phase in India, manufacturers and importers must take steps. They need to ensure the app is installed via a software update. The directive also mandates: “All manufacturers and importers of mobile handsets used in India shall provide a compliance report to the Department of Telecommunications within 120 days of these instructions being issued.”
App Features and Legal Implications
The Sanchar Sathi App enables users to report suspected misuse of the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. It also allows verification of the IMEI’s authenticity on their devices. Reporting lost mobile phones is also possible through this telecom customer application. Tampering with telecom identifiers, including the 15-digit IMEI number of a mobile phone, is a non-bailable offense. The Telecom Act, 2023, provides for up to three years of imprisonment. Alternatively, it can lead to a fine of up to 50 lakh rupees, or both. DoT has also instructed mobile phone companies to make the pre-installed application easily visible. It must be accessible to end-users during first use or device setup. The directive warns that non-compliance will result in action. This action will be taken under the Telecom Act 2023, the Telecom Cybersecurity Rules 2024, and other applicable laws.
