The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a major instruction to mobile phone companies. Now it will be mandatory to pre-install ‘Sanchar Sathi’ app in every new smartphone manufactured or imported in the country. Companies have been given 90 days to implement this rule.
What is the new order?
According to the guidelines issued on November 28, after 90 days, all mobile phones manufactured or imported into India must have the Sanchar Sathi app pre-installed. This app should be easily visible during phone setup and cannot be removed or disabled. The government has clearly said that this rule will apply to all companies. Be it Apple, Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, Vivo or any other brand.
What will be the effect on old phones?
It will be mandatory to add this app to the mobile phones which are already made or are available in the stores for sale. For this, companies will have to provide Sanchar Sathi app through software updates. Manufacturers and importers will have to submit a report to the Department of Telecommunications within 120 days to comply with this order.
Why did Sanchar Sathi app become mandatory?
Sanchar Sathi app is designed to prevent mobile security issues. The IMEI number of the mobile can be checked through this app. Complaint of any fraud related to IMEI can be filed. Reports of lost or stolen phones can be filed from the app. Complaint of fake call or fraud can also be made. According to the government, tampering with IMEI is a serious crime. This is a non-bailable offense and according to the Telecom Act 2023, it can lead to 3 years in jail, a fine up to Rs 50 lakh or both.
DoT’s strict instructions that Sanchar Saathi app must be visible and active on the phone
The government has said that mobile companies should ensure that the Sanchar Saathi app is easily visible on the device. App features should not be disabled or hidden. So that users can use the app without any interruption. If the instructions are not followed, then action will be taken against the companies under Telecom Act 2023, Telecom Cyber ​​Security Rules 2024 and other laws.
Second big order: Strictness on WhatsApp, Signal also
Just a few days before this order, the government had also implemented new rules on app-based services like WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram.
What do the new rules say?
These apps have to be constantly linked to the user’s active SIM card. The web version of the apps will auto logout every 6 hours. To log in again, you will have to re-link the device by scanning the QR code. These companies will also have to submit audit report within 120 days.
