The Centre has reversed its directive that required all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app, following backlash from opposition leaders, civil rights groups and users who raised concerns over privacy and potential misuse.

Government cites rising downloads, public feedback

According to the government, the order was rolled back as user downloads had surged — with over six lakh installations within 24 hours and 1.4 crore total users. Officials said the mandate was originally intended to push wider adoption, but public feedback prompted a re-evaluation.

The official statement reiterated Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia’s earlier assurance in Parliament that the app is deletable and does not enable snooping. The minister emphasised that in a democracy, every user has the right to remove applications they do not wish to use.

Opposition slams move, flags privacy concerns

Several opposition leaders criticised the initial directive, claiming it risked turning the app into a surveillance tool, echoing earlier privacy controversies. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called the decision “ridiculous”, while Karti Chidambaram compared the mandate to practices in authoritarian countries. Leaders from other parties also raised objections, describing it as a move that could compromise personal data.

What the Sanchar Saathi app offers

Sanchar Saathi, developed by the Department of Telecommunications, is designed to help users secure their digital identities, report suspicious activity and access cyber safety awareness material. It is available both as a mobile app and a web portal. The government maintains the app has no function beyond safeguarding users from cyber threats.

A political controversy has intensified during the ongoing Winter Session after Congress leader Ragini Nayak posted an AI-generated video depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi serving tea. The video, shared late last night, has triggered sharp reactions from the BJP and is expected to further disrupt parliamentary proceedings.

AI-generated clip draws criticism

The video shows the Prime Minister carrying a kettle and glasses at what appears to be an international event. PM Modi has often spoken publicly about helping at his father’s tea stall during his childhood, a point that has previously sparked political jibes during election seasons.

The latest post from Nayak has revived that contentious theme, drawing criticism from senior BJP leaders who called the video “insulting” and reflective of a “depraved mindset”.

BJP terms the post an attack on hardworking Indians

BJP leader CR Kesavan said the post was offensive to millions of hardworking citizens and accused the Congress of targeting the OBC community.

He also alleged that Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, “cannot accept” PM Modi’s rise through “hard work and dedication”, contrasting it with what the BJP calls the “entitlement” of Congress leadership.

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said the party had mocked the Prime Minister’s background earlier as well and claimed such remarks would not be forgiven by the public.

Row likely to disrupt Winter Session

The controversy has surfaced at a time when the Opposition is preparing to corner the government on issues including the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. With a heavy legislative agenda planned by the Centre, the latest political storm is likely to further heighten tensions in Parliament.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) by-election results for 12 wards were declared today, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerging as the leading performer by winning seven seats. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) secured three wards, while Congress and the Left picked up one seat each.

BJP maintains edge in civic bypolls

Voting was conducted on November 30 across 12 wards, nine of which were earlier represented by BJP councillors. The remaining three were held by AAP. This round of bypolls witnessed a voter turnout of 38.51%, lower compared to 50.47% recorded in the 2022 civic elections.

The counting process was carried out at 10 centres — including Kanjhawala, Pitampura, Civil Lines, Rouse Avenue, Dwarka, Najafgarh, Gole Market, Bharat Nagar, Pushp Vihar, and Mandawali — as shared by the State Election Commission.

Ward-wise highlights

• AAP’s Anil won the Mundka ward.
• AAP’s Ram Swaroop Kanojia won Dakshin Puri.
• Congress’ Suresh Choudhary secured a win in Sangam Vihar-A with a comfortable margin.
• BJP’s Anita Jain clinched Shalimar Bagh with 6,742 votes.
• BJP’s Suman Kumar Gupta won Chandni Chowk with 7,825 votes.
• AIFB’s Mohammad Imran led in Chandani Mahal, adding the lone Left victory.

With all results declared, the final tally stands at: BJP 7, AAP 3, Congress 1, AIFB 1.