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A major privacy storm erupted in Parliament as the government defended its mandatory Sanchar Saathi app. While the minister insisted “no snooping is possible,” the Opposition warned of hidden risks. Why has a safety app triggered such intense debate?
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia speaks during the Winter Session of Parliament
New Delhi: The third day of the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament on Wednesday witnessed heated discussion after Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that the government's cyber-security app Sanchar Saathi can neither be used for spying nor will it ever be used for such purposes.
His statement came in response to questions raised by Opposition members over the government’s directive to pre-install the app on all new smartphones.
Scindia said, “Sanchar Saathi cannot enable snooping, nor will it ever be used for it. This app has been created for the safety of citizens, not for surveillance. Our aim is to empower people and enhance their digital security.”
Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia’s latest statement on the Sanchar Saathi app in Parliament.@JM_Scindia pic.twitter.com/xduZ5RgrEh
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The issue surfaced during Question Hour, with Opposition MPs expressing serious concern over making the app mandatory on every new smartphone. They argued that compulsory pre-loading raises significant questions about the right to privacy. The Opposition’s tone remained sharp throughout the debate, but the minister reiterated that the app is entirely purpose-built for ensuring user safety.
On 28 November, the Ministry of Communications issued an order directing all mobile phone manufacturers to ensure that every new handset sold in India must come with the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed. Additionally, existing devices will receive the app mandatorily through software updates. According to the ministry, the move aims to strengthen cyber security for citizens amid rising digital threats.
The minister stated that Sanchar Saathi has been designed to safeguard users’ personal data and does not provide any mechanism for surveillance or monitoring. He emphasized that its sole purpose is to equip citizens with tools to stay secure in the digital ecosystem.
Experts say the measure is timely, given the rapid rise in cybercrime and online fraud. The app alerts users against suspicious links, malware, and other cyber threats, helping them remain vigilant.
The ministry also clarified that the app does not engage in data snooping or unauthorized tracking of any kind. It only provides users with security-related alerts and information. Through the app, citizens can enhance the safety of their messages, calls, and overall digital interactions.
Scindia further added that the government is deeply committed to digital safety and considers empowering citizens with cyber awareness a top priority. He said the step will significantly boost cyber awareness across the country and benefit every user.
Meanwhile, the Opposition linked the directive to concerns of privacy violations, arguing that making the app compulsory on all devices infringes upon individual freedom. Despite this, the minister firmly maintained that the app has no surveillance intent and is completely safe and transparent.
