Experts Concerned as ‘Sanchar Saathi’ App Becomes Mandatory; Questions Raised Over Data Privacy and User Control
The tech industry is in turmoil following two recent directives from the Indian government. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued orders last week mandating SIM binding for messaging apps and the pre-installation of the “Sanchar Saathi” app on all smartphones.
According to the DoT’s notification dated 28 November, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram will now require SIM binding, meaning a user cannot operate these apps without an active SIM card linked to the registered phone number. Simultaneously, smartphone manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, Motorola, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo are required to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all devices sold in India. Non-compliance will attract penalties. Companies must implement the order within 90 days and submit a compliance report...









