Asaduddin Owaisi’s ‘government snooping’ X post on Centre’s Sanchar Saathi app directive

“The fact that the circular wasn’t even made public reflects poorly on the govt. Making the app mandatory and unremovable would make each one of our devices susceptible to govt snooping,” he wrote.

His remarks came hours after Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia dismissed concerns that the government intended to monitor citizens through the app, which is designed for fraud reporting. “Users can decide to keep the Sanchar Saathi app or delete it,” Scindia told reporters, adding that the Centre “does not want to spy on anyone”.

The Department of Telecom (DoT), in an order dated November 28, directed manufacturers and importers of mobile handsets to ensure Sanchar Saathi is pre-installed on all new devices and pushed through a software update on existing phones. All mobile phones manufactured in India or imported after 90 days of the order will need to comply, and companies must report adherence within 120 days.

The government has maintained that the app is aimed at helping users block lost or stolen phones and report fraudulent communication. Owaisi and several Opposition leaders, however, have flagged the privacy implications of making the installation mandatory.

“If you want to delete it, then delete it. But not everyone in the country knows that this app exists to protect them from fraud and theft,” Scindia said.

Union minister for communications further noted that, “It is our responsibility to make this app reach everyone. If you want to delete it, then delete it. If you don’t want to use it, then don’t register it. If you register it, then it will remain active. If you don’t register it, then it will remain inactive.”