The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has withdrawn its directive requiring smartphone makers to mandatorily pre-install the government-owned Sanchar Saathi app. The Centre’s U-turn came following widespread concerns over privacy and fears of potential surveillance. The Ministry of Communications said in a press release, “Given Sanchar Saathi’s increasing acceptance, Government has decided not to make the pre-installation mandatory for mobile manufacturers.”
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia earlier on Wednesday assured Parliament that the state-backed cybersecurity application, Sanchar Saathi, does not pose any risk of surveillance or misuse of user data. The clarification comes amid rising concerns over privacy after the government recently directed smartphone makers to pre-install the app on all new devices sold in India.
“…if we have to bring about a change in the order based on the feedback we receive, we are ready for it,” Scindia said in Parliament. “Snooping is neither possible nor will it happen with the Sanchar Saathi safety app,” Scindia said during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha. He emphasised that the intent behind the initiative is to empower citizens to protect themselves against digital fraud and mobile theft.
There was initial confusion after companies were reportedly told that the app must remain permanently enabled and cannot be deleted. Responding to Opposition criticism and public unease, the minister on Tuesday clarified that installation is optional and users remain in full control.
“If you want to delete the app, you can. It is not mandatory,” Scindia said. “If someone chooses not to register, the app will remain dormant. Our responsibility is only to ensure that citizens know this tool exists for their safety,” he added.
PM Modi holds meeting with Bengal BJP MPs
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with BJP MPs from West Bengal during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament on Wednesday. The meeting is being seen as an assertive push ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections in the state.
Addressing the MPs, the Prime Minister urged them to intensify their outreach. “We must work harder and ensure a decisive victory in Bengal,” PM Modi said. He commended their efforts to challenge the ruling dispensation and encouraged them to sustain the momentum on the ground.
Modi also reviewed recent developments in the state, including the attack on BJP MP Khagen Murmu. He sought a detailed account of the incident. There are a total of 12 MPs in Lok Sabha and 2 MPs from West Bengal.
PM Modi said that the current situation in the state requires clear communication and public outreach, and the party must strongly counter what is happening on the ground. PM Modi has also asked the MPs to begin preparing detailed presentations and ensure full groundwork for upcoming political planning and mobilisation for the 2026 assembly elections in the state.
The meeting of PM also comes amid the Trinamool Congress (TMC) launching a campaign to oppose the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state.
Oppn protests against labour codes outside Parliament
Top Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party leader Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and MP Priyanka Gandhi, joined the INDIA bloc’s protest on Wednesday at the Parliament premises against the four labour codes introduced by the Centre.
Brandishing placards with slogans such as “No to Corporate Jungle Raj – Yes to Labour Justice”, the Opposition leaders accused the government of promoting what they termed “corporate jungle raj” through the labour reforms. They argued that the labour codes undermine workers’ rights and favour corporate interests, demanding that the government withdraw or review the legislations.
The latest demonstration comes after Opposition parties persistently pressed for a parliamentary discussion on key issues during the ongoing Winter Session. The Centre has now agreed to hold a debate on electoral reforms on December 9.
MPs wear gas masks to protest air pollution
Parliament also witnessed symbolic protest as several Opposition MPs entered the House wearing gas masks to draw attention to the worsening air pollution crisis in the national capital. The symbolic demonstration sparked a renewed debate over public health and political accountability in tackling Delhi’s hazardous air.
The protest coincides with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) slipping back into the “severe” category, heightening concerns about long-term health risks for millions of residents. Thick smog once again engulfed large parts of the city, reducing visibility and leaving citizens worried about respiratory safety.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, pollution levels crossed the 400 mark in multiple localities. Akshardham recorded an AQI of 405, while areas around AIIMS registered an even higher reading of 420.