A major political storm erupted on Monday night after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi sharply criticised the Union government’s new directive requiring all mobile manufacturers to permanently pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on every new device sold in India. The controversial mandate, issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on November 28, gives smartphone giants such as Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi 90 days to comply — a move opposition leaders claim sets the stage for unprecedented digital intrusion.

Taking to X, Chaturvedi accused the government of turning personal devices into surveillance tools. In a scathing post, she wrote, “Sanchar Saathi mobile Application mandate to every mobile phone manufacturer as a permanent mobile feature by the GoI is nothing but another BIG BOSS surveillance moment.”

The Sena MP alleged that instead of fixing systemic gaps in telecom grievance mechanisms, the government was choosing “shady ways to get into individual phones.” Warning the Centre of potential backlash, she added that the IT Ministry should be “ready for a pushback!” if it prioritises surveillance under the guise of cybersecurity.

The directive requires that Sanchar Saathi remain visible and accessible to users during device setup — with zero option to disable or restrict its functions. While the government insists the move will enhance national telecom security and protect citizens from fraud, critics argue it could normalise intrusive monitoring and expand state access to personal data.

Initially launched as a portal in early 2025, Sanchar Saathi is designed to help citizens report stolen devices, verify IMEI authenticity and block fraudulent mobile activity. Government officials justify the irreversible installation as a defence against rising cyber-frauds and cloned device crimes, claiming that making the app compulsory is essential to safeguard the mobile ecosystem.