The central government has issued a directive to smartphone manufacturers to pre-load the 'Sanchar Saathi' cybersecurity app on all new mobile phones entering the market within the next 90 days. This move by the Ministry of Telecommunications has triggered a sharp reaction from opposition parties, who have labeled it an attack on citizen privacy.

Kejriwal Criticises "Dictatorial" Move

Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal has strongly condemned the order. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he termed the mandate a "brazen attack on individual privacy and liberty."

Key Objections Raised by AAP:

Lack of Precedent: Kejriwal argued that no other democracy in the world has attempted such a measure.

No Consent: The notification reportedly makes no mention of seeking user consent for the installation.

No Removal Option: There is no provision allowing users to delete the app once installed.

AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal states, "The Modi government’s order to mobile manufacturers to install the 'Sanchar Saathi' app on all new and existing phones is a blatant attack on people's privacy and liberty... The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) condemns such dictatorial actions and demands the immediate withdrawal of this notification."

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Political Standoff Over Voter List Revision (SIR)

In a parallel development, the AAP and BJP have engaged in a war of words regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voters currently being conducted by the Election Commission.

AAP Allegations: "Rigging In The Name Of SIR"

The Aam Aadmi Party has questioned the purpose and transparency of the revision exercise, alleging nationwide rigging.

Voter Profiling: AAP Delhi State Convenor Saurabh Bharadwaj claimed the SIR is being used solely to ascertain voters' addresses.

Electoral Manipulation: Bharadwaj alleged that the BJP intends to use this data to target voters during elections, bringing them home to vote by offering "free train tickets and money."

BJP Rebuttal: "Fear Of Losing Illegal Voters"

The BJP has countered these claims, with State President Virendra Sachdeva describing AAP's statements as regrettable.

Insult to Bihar: Sachdeva stated that by implying voters are swayed by free tickets, AAP leaders are calling the people of Bihar "freeloaders," which he termed an insult.

Echoing Opposition: He accused AAP leaders Saurabh Bharadwaj and Sanjay Singh of merely echoing the sentiments of the Congress party.

Illegal Voter Removal: Sachdeva claimed AAP's real fear is that the names of Rohingya, Bangladeshi, and other illegal voters will be removed from Delhi's electoral roll during the revision.

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