Special Report: Government makes Sanchar Sathi app mandatory on all phones; Experts warn of surveillance risks
This special report analyzes the controversy surrounding the government’s new directive mandating pre-installation of the Sanchar Sathi app on all mobile phones sold in India. The program highlights the clash between the Centre’s arguments for curbing fraud and theft versus expert warnings about potential state surveillance and privacy violations. Key issues examined include apps’ access to sensitive data like call logs and cameras and the refusal of tech giants like Apple to adhere to the 90-day deadline. The report also details a political standoff, with opposition leaders comparing the move to ‘Pegasus’ while the government says the app is purely a security tool designed to protect citizens from cyber threats.
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Communication partner controversy: Cyrus John on data privacy and Apple’s refusal to pre-install government apps
In this special report, India Today’s Emerging Tech Editor, Cyrus John, discusses the government’s controversial directive mandating pre-installation of ‘Sanchar Sathi’ app on smartphones. Speaking to anchor Sonal, John explained the technical nuances of data privacy, warning that even after uninstalling an app, ‘your data is never gone.’ He highlighted the challenges for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), noting that although Android devices can comply, it ‘will not be easy for iOS devices’ as Apple does not entertain third-party apps. Discussion also included the possibility of spying and the need for third-party security review.
Karnataka power struggle: CM Siddaramaiah, DK Shivakumar hold ‘breakfast diplomacy’ meeting with Naughty Chicken
In this special report, India Today’s Sage Raj details the latest political developments in Karnataka as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar present a united front. The two leaders met over breakfast at DK Shivakumar’s residence, where the menu included ‘naughty chicken and idli served with curry’. Addressing the media, Siddaramaiah dismissed rumors of internal strife and said, ‘DK Shivakumar and I have discussed the assembly session from December 8 and what strategy we should adopt.’ The report also highlights the opposition BJP’s criticism of the government’s performance.
Controversial comments on Hindu deities and customs spark political controversy in Telangana
A political controversy has erupted in Telangana after a speaker made remarks about Hindu deities. During a meeting at Gandhi Bhavan, the speaker reportedly questioned the number of deities worshipped, listing specific categories such as married and unmarried. The commentaries also reference offerings to the gods, including wine and meat. These statements have been sharply criticized by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has demanded an apology, claiming it had hurt the sentiments of the community. The report highlights the political consequences of these controversial claims.
Sanchar Saathi controversy: Scindia denies spying allegations, calls app optional as Priyanka Gandhi warns of surveillance
In this special report, Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has defended the government’s directive to pre-install the ‘Sanchar Sathi’ app on all mobile phones, clarifying that ‘Sanchar Sathi cannot read your messages’ and this is purely for cyber security. Controversy erupted after the Center ordered manufacturers to install the app, leading to allegations of mass surveillance by the opposition. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra termed the move a ‘spying mechanism’ and argued that it crosses the fine line between fraud prevention and state intrusion. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also joined the debate and raised questions on the privacy of 140 crore citizens. The program examines the 90-day compliance deadline for companies and the political impasse over digital privacy rights.