New Delhi: Amid controversy over the Centre’s directive requiring mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all phones sold in India, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that users will have the choice to delete the app if they do not wish to use it.
Addressing media queries, Scindia said, “Do not activate it if you don’t want to. If you wish to keep it on your phone, you can. If not, delete it. Many apps come pre-installed on phones, like Google Maps. If you don’t want to use them, you can remove them.”
The minister emphasized that the government’s intention is to protect users from cyber fraud, not to enforce mandatory use. He explained that the app can remain dormant for those who choose not to register or use it, and deleting it is entirely optional.
Scindia added that the directive aims to raise awareness about the app, ensuring citizens know about the tools available to safeguard themselves against fraud. “Not every person in the country knows there is an app to protect them from fraud. It is our responsibility to spread the information,” he said, underlining that the measure is about customer safety rather than surveillance.
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