The government’s earlier plan to make the Sanchar Saathi app compulsory on new smartphones created a lot of curiosity and even concern among users. Many people were unsure about the idea because they thought it could affect their privacy. After receiving feedback from the public, the authorities reviewed the situation and decided not to go ahead with mandatory installation.
Now, Sanchar Saathi is completely optional. Anyone can keep it, remove it, or reinstall it based on their own choice.
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Government Withdraws the Mandatory Installation Rule
The Ministry has officially cancelled the earlier instruction that required smartphone companies to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app. Earlier, brands were told to enable the app during device setup and were given deadlines to implement the rule. All those requirements have now been taken back.
The government shared that strong participation from the public played a major role in the decision. More than 1.4 crore (14 million) Indians have already downloaded the app, and around two thousand cases of fraud are reported every day through it. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clearly stated that the app was never meant to be forced on users.
There were even reports that Apple had concerns about mandatory policies, similar to past situations in other countries. However, with the decision withdrawn, the matter is now settled for everyone.
Why the Government Changed Its Plan
The original idea behind mandatory installation was to improve digital security and encourage honest reporting of fraud cases. But once the public actively started using the app on their own, the authorities understood that compulsion was no longer needed.
Interestingly, right after discussions around the app began, the number of downloads increased sharply. In just one day, six lakh users signed up—almost ten times the usual number. With this kind of response, the government felt that voluntary usage was effective enough.
According to officials, the aim is to make the app accessible to those who want it, without creating pressure or confusion.
What Sanchar Saathi Actually Does
Sanchar Saathi was introduced earlier this year as a platform focused on user protection. It has already helped track down more than seven lakh lost or stolen mobile phones. It has also blocked millions of stolen devices and helped shut down fraudulent mobile connections.
The app also works against illegal IMEI cloning, which often affects people who unknowingly buy second-hand smartphones. With Sanchar Saathi, such risky devices can be detected more easily.
The Telecom Minister also assured that the app does not spy on users. Privacy remains fully protected, and people are free to uninstall the app if they do not wish to use it.
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Final Thoughts
Removing the mandatory rule brings clarity and relief for smartphone users. People now have full control over what they want on their devices. At the same time, anyone looking for extra protection from fraud can install the app whenever they need it.
The decision supports privacy, encourages awareness, and gives users complete freedom. Smartphone manufacturers also benefit from simpler guidelines, while the app continues to serve those who choose to use it.
Jatin Rajput (Tech Golu) — Tech blogger & YouTuber with 6+ years of experience in WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and mobile guides. Founder of TechGolu.in.