New Delhi [ India ], December 3 (ANI): The Ministry of Communications on Wednesday withdrew its directive requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on new devices, following opposition from various parties and concerns over privacy and surveillance.

The app, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity and combating digital fraud, will now be available for voluntary download.

The decision came after widespread criticism, with opponents arguing that mandatory pre-installation could enable unchecked state surveillance and infringe on consumer choice. The government maintained that the app is secure and meant to protect citizens from cyber threats, but ultimately decided to prioritise user consent.

The Sanchar Saathi app allows users to verify device authenticity, repo

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