Government Requires Sanchar Saathi App on New Smartphones
The Indian government has directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi application on all new devices sold in the country. This move aims to enhance cybersecurity and prevent the tampering or spoofing of IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers.
Order Details and Timeline
The order, issued on November 21st, gives manufacturers, including major players like Apple, Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo, 90 days to comply. Failure to do so could result in penalties. The directive applies to both domestically manufactured and imported devices, even those currently in transit.
Key Requirements of the Order
The government's directive includes the following key requirements:
- The Sanchar Saathi app must be pre-installed on all mobile handsets intended for use in India.
- The app must be "readily visible and accessible to the end users" upon first use or device setup.
- The app's functionalities cannot be disabled or restricted.
Actions for Existing Devices
For devices already manufactured and in sales channels, manufacturers and importers are instructed to "make an endeavour to push the App through software updates."
Purpose of Sanchar Saathi App
Sanchar Saathi is described as a citizen-centric initiative by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It aims to:
- Empower mobile subscribers
- Strengthen their security
- Increase awareness about government initiatives
Legal Basis and Compliance
The directive is issued under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024. Rule 5 of these rules allows the government to establish mechanisms to identify and report acts endangering telecom cybersecurity. The Sanchar Saathi app enables stakeholders to report IMEI-related misuse and verify IMEI authenticity.
The government emphasizes that mobile handsets with duplicate or spoofed IMEIs pose a serious threat to telecom cybersecurity.
Compliance and Penalties
Manufacturers and importers must submit compliance reports to the DoT within 120 days of the order's issuance. Failure to comply may result in action under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, and other applicable laws.
