Sanchar Saathi App: A New Chapter in India's Digital Security
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By: Digital Security Analyst and Tech Journalist
In this day and age, when our smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, the shadow of cybercrime is spreading everywhere. Thousands of phishing calls every minute, misuse of stolen phones with fake IMEIs, and additional SIM cards unknowingly registered in one's name — all these are the victims of millions of Indians.
In this context, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)’s Sanchar Saathi app has come as a powerful weapon. But the announcement made in yesterday's news, i.e. December 1, 2025, is not only increasing the use of the app, but also making it mandatory.
This government directive: Sanchar Saathi app must be pre-installed on all new smartphones, and it cannot be uninstalled or disabled. Is this really a security crusade, or an invisible pressure on privacy?
The Rise of Sanchar Saathi: From a Simple App to a National Security Tool
Sanchar Saathi started as a web portal in May 2023. The main objective of this platform, developed under the DoT, was to prevent misuse of telecom resources and fight cyber fraud. Later, in January 2025, it was converted into a mobile app for Android and iOS.
The name of the app itself suggests its meaning — “Companion of Communication” — which acts as a companion to increase the security and awareness of mobile users.
Key Features of the App:
- IMEI Verification: Check if your phone is genuine using its IMEI number.
- Lost Phone Reporting: Instantly block a lost phone to prevent misuse.
- Connection Check: View how many SIM cards are registered under your identity.
- Fraud Reporting: Report suspicious calls, SMS or web links.
- Trusted Contacts: Access verified contact numbers of banks and financial institutions.
This app not only helps users, but also the government to strengthen telecom security.
By August 2025, the number of downloads crossed 5 million, and in October alone, 50,000 stolen phones were recovered. In total, more than 7 lakh phones have been recovered through the platform.
It is an invaluable asset for India’s 1.2 billion telecom users.
Today’s Big News: Pre-installation Directive, 90-Day Deadline
On November 28, 2025, DoT issued a confidential instruction, which became public on December 1. It mandates that:
- All smartphone manufacturers and importers (including Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo) must pre-install Sanchar Saathi.
- Effective in 90 days — from March 2026.
- Compliance report within 120 days.
And most importantly:
- The app cannot be uninstalled or disabled.
- It must remain active during device setup.
- Phones already in the supply chain must receive the app via software update.
The government’s argument:
"To protect citizens from non-genuine handsets, prevent telecom abuse and enhance the effectiveness of the Sanchar Saathi initiative.”
IMEI tampering is already a punishable offence under Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024. The app will enforce this digitally.
The directive is comparable to Russia, where the MAX Messenger app is mandatory from September 2025. But this marks the first-ever mandatory non-removable state app in India.
Benefits: Security Shield for a Vulnerable Digital Nation
- Cyber fraud in India results in multi-billion-dollar losses annually.
- Stolen phones play a key role in identity theft, spam and terror financing.
- Blacklisted IMEIs are blocked, helping police and telecom operators.
- 7 lakh+ phones already recovered proves operational success.
- Educational features promote user awareness.
- Coverage to over 735 million smartphone users (Android 95.5%, iOS 4.5%).
This aligns with the vision of Digital India, where progress requires security.
Challenges and Criticism: A Threat to Privacy?
However, concerns are rising rapidly.
The app seeks:
- Call logs
- SMS access
- Location tracking
- Camera access
- Background permissions
Since it cannot be turned off, it could become a permanent state surveillance mechanism.
Digital rights activist Nikhil Pahwa states:
“This is India’s first non-removable state app. Like Russia, it is dictatorial.”
Privacy advocates argue:
- It infringes Right to Privacy, a fundamental right under Article 21.
- The directive lacks public consultation.
- Global tech firms, particularly Apple, may oppose intrusive permissions, recalling earlier conflicts over anti-spam apps.
Conclusion
Sanchar Saathi stands as a powerful digital defense tool — but the government’s latest mandate moves the conversation from security to surveillance.
Is the nation being protected… or being watched?
The balance between national security and individual privacy has never been more critical. The next 90 days will determine which direction India chooses in its digital future.
