India has withdrawn a directive requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the government’s Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all new devices after widespread backlash. Issued on November 28 by the Department of Telecommunications, the order gave companies like Apple and Samsung 90 days to comply, citing efforts to curb fraud and misuse of mobile phones through International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) tracking.

The app was to be visible at setup and not removable, with compliance reports due within 120 days. However, tech firms and digital rights groups strongly opposed the move, warning of privacy violations and state overreach. Apple reportedly refused compliance, while Samsung reviewed the order. Critics, including the Internet Freedom Foundation and opposition leaders, described the measure as disproportionate and intrusive, likening it to past controversies over Aarogya Setu. On December 3, India’s Communications Ministry revoked the mandate, calling the app secure but optional.