Sanchar Sathi App Sparks Debate, Centre Steps Back

Sanchar Sathi App Sparks Debate, Centre Steps Back

Kolkata, December 2:

The Union Government’s newly launched ‘Sanchar Sathi’ app has become the center of controversy. Designed to curb cyber fraud, block lost or stolen phones, and prevent misuse of fake SIM cards, the app was initially announced as mandatory for all smartphones. This directive immediately triggered sharp criticism from opposition parties, who accused the government of attempting mass surveillance under the guise of cyber security.

Key Features of the App

1. Report Suspect Fraud Communication: Users can report suspicious calls or messages believed to be linked to fraud.
2. Block Your Lost/Stolen Mobile: Options include blocking a lost phone, unblocking a recovered device, checking request status, or retrieving a forgotten request ID.
3. Know Mobile Connections in Your Name: Allows users to verify how many SIM cards are registered under their identity, helping curb misuse of fake documents.
4. Check Genuineness of Your Handset: By entering the IMEI number, users can confirm the authenticity of their device.
5. Report Incoming International Calls with Indian Numbers: Enables reporting of fraudulent calls that appear with Indian caller IDs but originate from abroad.

The Controversy

On Monday, the Centre directed mobile companies to ensure that all new smartphones released within 90 days come pre-loaded with the Sanchar Sathi app, which users would not be able to delete. Opposition leaders strongly objected, claiming the move was an attempt to monitor citizens’ private communications.

Centre’s Clarification

Facing backlash, the government softened its stance on Tuesday. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified:

“It is our duty to encourage people to keep this app on their phones. But whether they want to keep it or not, that decision rests with the consumer.”

While the app promises to be a powerful tool against cybercrime, phone theft, and SIM fraud, the debate over mandatory installation versus user choice has placed Sanchar Sathi firmly in the spotlight.