Is India becoming a surveillance state? That’s the question everyone is asking after the recent controversy where the government initially tried to force smartphone makers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every new phone.

I kept hearing the buzz "It’s mandatory," "You can’t delete it," "It’s like North Korea." So, I decided to test it myself. I downloaded the app, checked the permissions, and dug into the features to see if it’s actually dangerous or just a misunderstood utility.

1. The "North Korea" Vibes: Forced Registration?

You aren't wrong to feel weird about it. When you open the app, you must register with a mobile number to go inside. There is no "Guest Mode."

• The Logic: Since the app deals with sensitive telecom data (like blocking stolen phones or checking SIMs registered in your name), they need to verify you own the number.
• The Fear: By linking your number immediately, the government creates a direct log of who is using the app and on what device.
  

2. The Permissions: What are they taking?

I went into the app settings to see what it grabs. You mentioned it asked for Phone and SMS, but not files. Here is the breakdown:

• Phone Permission: It asks to "make and manage phone calls." This sounds scary, but for this specific app, it’s usually required to read the IMEI number of your device (which is needed to track it if stolen).
• SMS Permission: This is for the OTP to log you in.
• No File/Media Access (Mostly): You are right it didn't ask for my gallery or file logs immediately. This is a green flag. Spyware usually wants your photos and microphone immediately.
• The Catch: If you use the "Chakshu" feature (to report fraud screenshots), it will ask for storage permission then.

3. Why Can't I Take Screenshots?

You noticed the app blocks screenshots.

• Is it censorship? Probably not.
• Is it security? Yes. Most banking apps (Paytm, GPay, HDFC) and government ID apps block screenshots to prevent malware from "screen scraping" your data. It’s annoying, but it’s standard security practice, not necessarily a dictatorship move.

4. The "Chakshu" Feature (What’s in your screenshot)

The image you uploaded shows the Chakshu interface. This is actually the good part of the app.

• What it does: If you get a scam call or a WhatsApp message threatening "Digital Arrest," you can report it here.
• Real Utility: It helps the DoT blackmark scam numbers faster.
  

The Verdict: Dictatorship or Utility?

Is it North Korea?
Not anymore. The government did try to make it mandatory for all phone manufacturers to pre-install it, which was a massive overreach. However, after the backlash, they rolled back that order. Now, it is optional.

Is it Dangerous?
Technically, no. The permissions it asks for match its features (blocking lost phones and checking SIMs). It doesn't seem to be secretly recording your conversations or stealing your photos based on current analysis.

Should you download it?

• YES if you lost your phone or want to check if someone bought a SIM card in your name (the TAFCOP feature).
• NO if you don't have a specific need. You can access all these features on their website (sancharsaathi.gov.in) without giving an app permanent permissions on your phone.

Final Score: Useful tool, but the government's attempt to force it on us was a major privacy red flag. Keep your eyes open.