India, Dec. 2 -- Updated | December 2, 14:25 IST

Telecom minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that the Sanchar Saathi app is not compulsory for users, and smartphone users will have an option to delete the app.

"If you don't wish to register, you shouldn't register and can remove it anytime," Scindia said.

Original | December 1, 20:04 IST

The telecom ministry has directed smartphone companies to preload government-backed cyber safety app, Sanchar Saathi, on all new devices sold in India. The app will be locked on the phone and users will not be allowed to remove it.

The order, dated November 28, has been sent privately to major manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo and Xiaomi, Reuters reported.

The companies have 90...