IFF's Statement against mandatory installation of "Sanchar Saathi"
9 days ago
- #Digital Rights
- #Privacy
- #Telecom Regulation
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) mandates pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on all mobile handsets in India.
- The directive raises privacy concerns as the app cannot be disabled or removed, requiring system-level access.
- The measure is seen as disproportionate and legally fragile under the Supreme Court's Puttaswamy judgment on privacy rights.
- Alternative, less intrusive methods for IMEI verification exist, such as web portals and SMS services.
- The vague definition of 'telecom cyber security' in the directive could lead to function creep and expanded surveillance.
- Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) has filed an RTI for the directive's justification and plans to challenge it legally.