“If you want to delete it, you can”: Telecom Minister Jyotriaditya Scindia clarifies Sanchar Saathi is optional, not mandatory

The Ministry of Communications on Tuesday clarified that the government-backed “Sanchar Saathi” mobile application is entirely optional for users, putting to rest earlier concerns and speculations that it would be unremovable and mandatory on all smartphones. 

Ever since this circular was put out on 28th November, there has been a lot of debate and speculation about it’s security and privacy among netizens, stakeholders, and opposition.

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Jyotiraditya Scindia clarifies

Addressing reporters outside Parliament, Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said, "The app is completely optional. If you want to delete it, you can. If you don't wish to register, you shouldn’t register and can remove it anytime."

He emphasised that the app “does not enable snooping or call monitoring.” 

Scindia added:"But not everyone in the country knows that this app exists to protect them from fraud and theft. 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."

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Nature of the DoT directive

This is in response to a directive from the DoT allegedly issued on November 28, 2025, wherein the said department ordered major smartphone manufacturers and importers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every new device sold in India.

The original order also called for the app to remain functional and enabled by default.

Backlash

The decision immediately led to a backlash by privacy advocates, opposition politicians, and sections of civil society, who criticized the mandate as a threat to user autonomy and possibly a step toward increased surveillance.

To that, the major smartphone manufacturers have taken cautious positions.

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Stance of Apple & Samsung

According to industry sources quoted by Reuters, Apple has indicated it does not plan to comply with the directive because of its global privacy and security standards and will formally communicate its concerns to Indian authorities.

While other companies, such as Samsung, are reportedly still reviewing their stance.

Aim of Sanchar Saathi app 

The government maintains that the intent of the app is benign:

• to help users block or track lost or stolen phones,

• identify fraudulent SIM connections,

• curb telecom fraud, 

• not to monitor calls or personal data.

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