Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has strongly criticized the Centre for making the Sanchar Saathi app mandatory on mobile devices, describing the move as an attempt to turn India into a “dictatorship.” Speaking to the media, she raised serious concerns about privacy violations, mass surveillance, and the potential misuse of citizens’ personal data by authorities. Gandhi emphasized that digital tools and government apps should be voluntary and used for public benefit rather than as instruments of control.
The Sanchar Saathi app, developed by the Department of Telecommunications, allows mobile users to track and secure their devices. While the government claims it enhances cybersecurity and helps recover lost phones, Priyanka Gandhi argued that mandatory installation undermines individual freedoms and could be misused to monitor citizens without consent. She warned that such measures threaten democratic principles and personal privacy, creating a climate of fear rather than trust.
In her remarks, Gandhi called on the government to respect citizens’ rights and ensure transparency in the use of digital applications. She stressed that India’s democracy depends on safeguarding freedoms and protecting citizens from unwarranted surveillance. The Congress leader noted that citizens should have the choice to download and use government apps, and that making it compulsory could erode public confidence in digital governance initiatives.
Opposition parties have increasingly raised concerns about the implications of digital mandates on civil liberties, citing examples where technology could be exploited to collect sensitive information. Experts also caution that mandatory apps without robust data protection mechanisms can lead to privacy breaches and misuse of personal information. Gandhi’s criticism aligns with broader debates on digital rights, emphasizing the need for clear regulations, accountability, and consent in government technology initiatives.
The government, on the other hand, maintains that the Sanchar Saathi app enhances security and assists in theft prevention, particularly for mobile devices. Officials argue that widespread adoption helps streamline services and safeguards users against phone-related crimes. However, critics highlight that mandatory compliance without adequate safeguards can create distrust and resistance among the public.
Priyanka Gandhi’s statements have sparked a wider discussion about digital governance and the balance between security and individual rights. She urged the Centre to rethink its mandate, involve stakeholders in policy formulation, and strengthen privacy protections. Her comments come at a time when citizens are increasingly concerned about online privacy, data collection practices, and the potential for intrusive monitoring by authorities.
The Congress leader concluded by reaffirming the party’s commitment to democratic values, personal freedoms, and citizen rights. She stressed that technology should empower people rather than restrict them, and that any government initiative must uphold transparency, consent, and accountability. Gandhi’s remarks signal heightened scrutiny of digital policies and underscore the importance of protecting privacy while leveraging technology for governance.
