Scindia Says Sanchar Sathi App Is Optional: No Mandatory Activation for Mobile Users

Introduction

Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia has stepped forward to clear the air surrounding the Sanchar Sathi platform, addressing confusion and debates that surfaced in the past few days. His message was straightforward and aimed at reassuring millions of mobile users across the country.

He stated, “If you want, you can activate it; if you don’t, then don’t activate it. If you don’t want Sanchar Sathi, you can delete it. It is optional.”
With this simple remark, Scindia made it clear that the government is not making the Sanchar Sathi system mandatory for anyone.

What Is Sanchar Sathi?

Sanchar Sathi is a digital platform developed by the Department of Telecommunications with the purpose of making mobile use safer. It allows users to:

• Check how many mobile numbers are registered under their name
• Report a lost or stolen mobile phone
• Block misuse of their SIM
• Detect fraudulent or suspicious mobile connections
• Take action against illegal SIM issuance

The platform was introduced as a tool for digital safety, especially when cases of SIM fraud and mobile identity theft are rising in India.

Why Did Scindia Issue This Clarification?

In recent weeks, social media posts and forwarded messages began claiming that the government might make the Sanchar Sathi app compulsory. Some users also raised questions about privacy, personal data, and whether they would be forced to link their details through the platform.

As misinformation spread quickly, the Communications Ministry found itself facing unnecessary panic. Scindia’s statement was meant to end this confusion once and for all.

No Compulsion, No Penalty

Scindia’s message emphasizes that there is absolutely no pressure on users to adopt the platform. You can install it or skip it entirely. If you have already installed it but feel you do not need the service, it can be deleted without any impact on your mobile services.

According to ministry sources, the platform was created as an additional protective layer—not as a compulsory system for all Indians.

Why the Government Launched Sanchar Sathi

The rise in telecom-related fraud has been concerning. People have reported:

• Fake SIM cards being issued in their name
• Online scams involving mobile identity theft
• SIM misuse for financial fraud
• Phones being cloned or used for illegal activities

Sanchar Sathi aims to give users direct control and visibility over their mobile connections. It is part of the government’s wider effort to strengthen cyber safety.

Public Reactions

After Scindia’s statement, reactions flowed across social media. Some users appreciated the transparency, calling the clarification “much needed.” Others pointed out that technical platforms require clearer communication to avoid confusion in the first place.

Many also welcomed the features of the tool, especially for families who want to track unauthorized mobile numbers issued under their identity.

Final Word

With Scindia’s clear and confident message, citizens can now be assured that the Sanchar Sathi platform is only an optional security tool. There are no rules forcing anyone to use it, and your mobile services will not be affected if you choose not to activate it.