December 3, 2025
India withdraws mandate to preload cybersecurity app on smartphones after outcry
The logo of the Sanchar Saathi app and the Indian flag are seen in this picture taken on December 2, 2025. — Reuters The decision marks a rare policy reversal for the Modi government. Congress and tech companies are questioning the legality of the move. The Indian government says it is backing down because of the app’s popularity. India’s government on Wednesday rescinded an order for smartphone makers to preload a government cybersecurity app on all new devices after an outcry from politicians, privacy advocates and global tech companies over surveillance fears. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government had privately told






