India: Department of Telecommunications withdrew directions mandating installation of Sanchar Saathi mobile application on mobile handsets

On 3 December 2025, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of the Ministry of Communications withdrew the directions mandating the installation of the Sanchar Saathi mobile application on mobile handsets. The directions previously issued by the DoT would have required manufacturers and importers of mobile handsets for use in India to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi mobile application, ensure its visibility and accessibility for end users, and endeavour to push the app through software updates for devices already in sales channels. The Sanchar Saathi app includes functions such as reporting and blocking stolen mobile phones and reporting fraud.