| Key Event/Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Reversal | Government of India withdraws directive requiring pre-installation of Sanchar Saathi app. |
| Announcement Date | December 3, 2025 |
| Reason for Rollback | Public and industry concerns over privacy, snooping fears, and lack of prior consultation. |
| Sanchar Saathi App Purpose | Helps users combat cyber fraud, mobile theft, and unauthorized SIM usage. |
| App Achievements (2025) | Traced 26 lakh stolen handsets, returned 7 lakh phones, blocked 6 lakh fraud attempts, disconnected 41 lakh fraudulent connections. |
| Downloads (Dec 2025) | Over 1.5 crore, with higher adoption in urban and semi-urban areas. |
| Initial Directive Date | November 28, 2025 |
| Manufacturers Affected | Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, among others. |
| Criticism Sources | Privacy advocates, tech analysts, and industry associations raised concerns. |
| Minister's Clarification | Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated snooping is not possible or intended. |
| Voluntary Usage | App operates only after user registration and can be deleted anytime. |
| Industry Reaction (ICEA) | India Cellular & Electronics Association welcomed the rollback, emphasizing voluntary adoption. |
| SIM-Binding Concern | Concerns raised about the SIM-binding mandate threatening user freedoms. |
| Impact on Consumers | App remains optional, no surveillance concerns, users can install or delete freely. |
| Impact on Industry | Relief from forced app integration, clearer policy communication expected. |
| Policy Precedent | Demonstrates government's responsiveness to public feedback and commitment to privacy. |
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