India’s Reversal on Mandatory State-Owned Security App Installation
In a significant policy shift, the Indian government has retracted its earlier mandate requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a state-owned security application, Sanchar Saathi, on all devices sold within the country. This decision follows substantial resistance from major tech companies, notably Apple, which expressed serious concerns over user privacy and device security.
Background of the Mandate
On November 28, 2025, India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a directive compelling smartphone manufacturers to embed the Sanchar Saathi app into all new devices. The app was designed to assist users in reporting stolen devices, blocking a phone’s unique International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number with carriers, and reporting spam or scam phone numbers. The directive also stipulated that the app should be undeletable, ensuring its permanent presence on users’ devices.
Apple’s Firm Stance
Apple, renowned for its stringent privacy policies and secure ecosystem, promptly opposed the mandate. The company argued that enforcing the installation of an undeletable app posed significant privacy and security risks to its iOS platform. According to sources familiar with Apple’s position, the company planned to inform the Indian government that it does not comply with such mandates anywhere globally, as they compromise user privacy and device security.
Government’s Partial Concession
In response to the backlash, the Indian government appeared to soften its stance. The DoT announced that while the Sanchar Saathi app would still be pre-installed for users’ protection, it would be entirely optional, allowing users to decide whether to keep it on their devices. This announcement was made via the DoT’s official Twitter account, emphasizing that the app’s presence was for digital safety but ultimately at the user’s discretion.
Complete Policy Reversal
Despite this concession, Apple maintained its refusal to comply with the directive, citing unresolved privacy and security concerns. This steadfast opposition led the Indian government to fully retract its mandate within 48 hours of its initial announcement. The rapid policy reversal underscores the influence and negotiating power of major tech companies in the face of regulatory decisions that may impact user privacy and device security.
Implications for the Tech Industry
This incident highlights the delicate balance between governmental regulatory efforts and the operational policies of global tech giants. It also underscores the importance of user privacy and security in the digital age. The swift reversal may set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future, emphasizing the need for collaborative approaches that respect both regulatory intentions and user rights.
Conclusion
The Indian government’s decision to withdraw its mandate for the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app reflects the complex interplay between regulatory authorities and technology companies. It also highlights the critical importance of user privacy and security considerations in the development and implementation of digital policies. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, such instances serve as valuable lessons in navigating the intersection of technology, regulation, and user rights.
