India's Controversial Cybersecurity App Faces Backlash

India has recently revoked its directive that mandated the installation of a state-run cybersecurity app, Sanchar Saathi, on smartphones. This decision came after a significant backlash from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's opponents and privacy activists who raised concerns about potential surveillance implications.

Initially, the Indian government ordered smartphone manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi to pre-install this app within 90 days, citing it as a measure to combat a surge in cybercrimes and hacking incidents within the country.

The app was designed to help users track and block stolen phones by utilizing the International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI number, which is essential for device tracking. According to the Department of Telecommunications, the app was supposed to be mandatory and not deletable, ensuring its visibility and accessibility during the initial device setup.

The government claimed that Sanchar Saathi aimed to enhance cybersecurity and prevent the misuse of stolen devices. However, the backlash was swift, with opposition parties and privacy advocates arguing that the app's mandatory installation could infringe on individual privacy rights.

Prominent media outlets reported that Apple and Samsung were already considering not to comply with the directive, which added pressure on the government. Following the protests and public outcry, the Indian government's communications ministry announced that the installation of the app would no longer be compulsory.

Users would now have the freedom to activate or delete the app as they choose. The revocation highlights the ongoing struggle between ensuring national security and respecting citizen privacy. While the government emphasized that the app had already aided in blocking millions of stolen phones, the controversy surrounding its mandatory nature raised broader questions about government surveillance and the balance of power in digital governance.

This incident underscores the challenges faced by governments worldwide in implementing cybersecurity measures that are both effective and respectful of civil liberties. The Sanchar Saathi app, which had recorded over 10 million downloads, was initially positioned as a citizen-centric safety tool but has now become a focal point for debates regarding privacy and state control.

The scenario reflects a growing global concern about how governments handle cybersecurity in an era of increasing digital threats. The Indian government had previously identified telecom, financial services, healthcare, and government platforms as the most affected sectors by cyber incidents, with over 2.2 million cybersecurity events recorded between 2021 and mid-2025, according to CERT-IN data.

As this situation develops, it remains to be seen how India will address the ongoing cyber threats without compromising the fundamental rights of its citizens.