Union Communications Minister and Minister for Development of the Northeastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia has clarified that the Sanchar Saathi mobile application is neither mandatory nor a surveillance tool. He underlined that the platform is designed as a citizen‑first, privacy‑respecting initiative that users can activate, deactivate or delete at any time according to their preference.
App usage is fully voluntary
Shri Scindia stressed that Sanchar Saathi functions only when a user chooses to register and grant permissions, and there is no compulsion to keep the app on a device. Users retain complete control: they may install the app to access its security features and are free to remove it whenever they wish, with no impact on basic telecom services. This clarification directly addresses concerns that recent directions to pre‑install the app might force continuous tracking of mobile users.
Citizen‑centric design and privacy focus
Positioning Sanchar Saathi as a “citizen safety tool rooted in Jan Bhaagidaari”, the Minister explained that the platform aims to empower every mobile subscriber against fraud, identity theft and device misuse. The app and portal allow users to secure their digital footprint through simple, transparent tools rather than opaque background monitoring. By keeping activation voluntary and data usage purpose‑specific, the government seeks to balance robust digital security with respect for individual privacy.
Measurable impact and fraud prevention
Scindia highlighted that Sanchar Saathi has already recorded strong usage, with over 21.5 crore portal visits and more than 1.4 crore app downloads, reflecting growing citizen trust. Using features such as connection verification, fraud reporting and device blocking, citizens themselves have helped disconnect over 1.43 crore unauthorised mobile connections, trace lakhs of lost or stolen phones and prevent hundreds of crores of rupees in potential financial fraud.
Cybersecurity and public participation at the core
A key feature of the app is the ability to report suspected fraud directly from call logs or messages, enabling vigilant users to shield more vulnerable sections of society. Framing digital security as a shared responsibility, Scindia said Sanchar Saathi strengthens India’s overall cybersecurity architecture while leaving users free to opt in or opt out at any time. According to him, the initiative demonstrates that citizen participation and transparency, not surveillance, are at the heart of the government’s approach to protecting mobile consumers.
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Source: PIB
