SIM-binding directions for platforms to stay: Minister

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Wednesday that SIM-binding instructions will remain in force from November 2025. This requires messaging apps (the biggest of which is WhatsApp) to do two things: force-log out users of services like WhatsApp Web every six hours, and stop working if the SIM stored on the user’s device is not authorized. February 28 is the deadline for compliance.

These rules were implemented for national security and fraud prevention reasons, Mr. Scindia said. “As of now, there is no thought of an extension regarding compliance with the rules,” Mr. Scindia said in response to a question. Hindu during a press interaction. “Logout event [after six hours] only for multiple connections on the same device, when you go to your computer, etc. The rules apply at this point and the reasons for this are very well-founded, you are all aware of this not only from a fraud perspective, but also from a security perspective.”

WhatsApp’s parent company Meta appears to be testing code in “beta” versions of the app that will display a message to users stating that Indian regulations require the company to check if their SIM is still on the device. It is also unclear whether the company plans to comply with the six-hour logout window, which industry association IAMAI has warned would be inconvenient for the government’s professionals who rely on WhatsApp Web and families who share a single WhatsApp account.

“There are some issues related to national security and there are also issues related to revenue,” Mr. Scindia said. “There can be no compromise on national security issues.”

Starlink launch

During the long-awaited launch of satellite Internet service Starlink, Mr Scindia said the SpaceX-owned firm had yet to complete security demonstrations for the government using “sample spectrum” given to it for the purpose.

Mr. Scindia added that arrangements also need to be made for assigning the spectrum to Starlink, but hoped that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) could arrange for this before Starlink completes its demonstrations. Demonstrations to security agencies likely include the firm demonstrating that it can gain access to the networks of its Indian users, disable user terminals outside India’s borders, and shut down access when ordered.

BSNL officer

Mr. Scindia also condemned the “shocking” demands and arrangements in connection with the BSNL Director’s planned visit to Prayagraj. He said a statement had been issued for demonstration purposes and that action would be “taken”.

Earlier this week, an office order detailing major personnel and material arrangements for Vivek Banzal went viral. The order included deputation of around 50 personnel to ensure that Mr. Banzal was taken care of during his visit to Prayagraj.

Mr Scindia said the order was “unbecoming and unacceptable”. “We will not let this go,” Mr. Scindia said. “Shocking… It is unacceptable to issue such an order in 21st century India.”

On BSNL’s financial performance, Mr. Scindia said the state-owned telecom company was generating “healthy cash flow”.