Government Reversal on Sanchar Saathi App Mandate
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) reversed its directive for phone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app, initially aimed at increasing its user base.
- The decision followed a surge in app downloads, suggesting the mandate was unnecessary.
- The original intent was to make the app accessible to less tech-savvy citizens.
Background of the Directive
The DoT had earlier issued this order under new powers to regulate Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUE), allowing directives to any entity using phone numbers.
- The order was not publicly shared but was leaked, causing public backlash.
- Civil society and opposition criticized the government's move to place an app on all phones without user consent.
Defense and Outcome
Communications Minister defended the app, highlighting its role in combating fraudulent activities and retrieving lost phones.
- Statistics: 1.5 crore fraudulent mobile connections were disconnected, and 26 lakh lost phones traced.
- Emphasized that the app’s success depends on public support and readiness to amend orders based on feedback.
Additional Directives by DoT
This is part of a series of orders following the amendment of the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024.
- Platforms like WhatsApp must restrict accounts if the device lacks the registered SIM card.
- WhatsApp Web services must log out every six hours to enhance security.
- Social media and messaging platforms must integrate financial fraud indicators and deactivate suspicious accounts immediately.
Role of AI and Digital Intelligence Unit
The orders are managed by the DoT’s seven-member AI and Digital Intelligence Unit, focusing on SIM security, illegal telecom setups, and financial fraud in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of India.
