Indian order to preload state-owned app on smartphones sparks political outcry

The Indian government has ordered smartphone manufacturers, including Apple and Samsung, to pre-install its state-owned Sanchar Saathi app on all new and existing phones within 90 days. The government claims the app is a security measure to combat cyber fraud, regulate the secondhand phone market, and help citizens track lost phones and fraudulent connections. However, the mandate has sparked political opposition and criticism from digital freedom activists who fear it grants the government unchecked access to user data and enables surveillance. Opposition leaders have condemned the move as a violation of privacy. Reportedly, Apple intends to refuse compliance due to security concerns, while other tech companies have yet to respond publicly.

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