Sanchar Saathi App Controversy – Ever since the Indian government announced that every new smartphone sold in the country would come with the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed, the tech industry, opposition leaders, and everyday smartphone users have been debating its impact.

While the government claims this move will help curb cyber fraud, stop fake IMEI issues, and strengthen telecom security, critics fear it could affect user privacy and data control.

Here’s a clear look at how the app works, why it has sparked controversy, and what risks users may face when buying a smartphone with Sanchar Saathi already installed.

What Exactly Does the Sanchar Saathi App Do?

Sanchar Saathi is a government-backed cybersecurity tool designed to protect mobile users.

The app allows people to:

  • Verify their phone’s IMEI
  • Report a lost or stolen device
  • Check for fake or unauthorised SIM connections
  • Report scam calls and messages

According to the government, the used phone market in India has seen a rise in the sale of stolen and blocked devices. This makes it difficult for authorities to track criminals. Sanchar Saathi is meant to solve that problem by improving device traceability and user security.

What Are the Potential Risks of Buying a Phone With Sanchar Saathi?

Tech experts warn that a pre-installed, non-removable app can access system-level permissions that normal apps cannot. This is why privacy concerns have proliferated.

A preloaded app may be able to:

  • Access background activity
  • Monitor how and when the phone is used
  • Detect the network you are connected to
  • Track which apps you use and for how long

If the app gets permissions for microphone or camera access, it can technically use them continuously—permissions that most regular apps cannot obtain so easily.

A significant concern is location tracking. If the app cannot be uninstalled, it may continuously access live location data.

Permissions related to: Contacts, Call logs, and Message patterns could also give the app deeper insight into a user’s personal communication.

These possibilities have caused users to fear unwanted surveillance.

Why Are People Calling This Government Surveillance?

Many experts argue that when an app cannot be removed, it becomes a forced feature rather than a user choice.

This raises concerns about increased government or other agency access to private phone data

The opposition has criticised the decision, calling it an attack on citizens’ privacy and digital freedom.

Pressure grew so much that the government later clarified that the app is meant only for security, not surveillance.

Finally, as the debate intensified, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia confirmed that the app would be optional, and users could uninstall it if they didn’t want it on their devices.