SIM Binding: Broadband India Forum objects to the SIM-binding rule, saying there should be a wide discussion before implementing it..

The Broadband India Forum (BIF) has expressed serious objections to the government's mandate requiring messaging apps to remain permanently linked to an active SIM card. The organization argues that these guidelines could have profound implications for consumers, the industry, and data privacy. Therefore, the government should immediately postpone the implementation deadline and engage in a comprehensive discussion.

What are the directives regarding SIM-binding?
The rules issued by the Department of Telecommunications on November 28, 2025, state that all messaging apps, including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, must remain permanently linked to a user's active SIM. If the SIM becomes inactive, auto-logout will be required every six hours on the web or desktop versions. The Department of Telecommunications has directed all telecom companies to submit a full compliance report within 120 days. Failure to comply with these rules could result in action under the Telecom Act, 2023, and cybersecurity regulations.

Attempts to Curb Cybercrime
The government claims that the SIM-binding rules are primarily aimed at preventing cybercrimes originating from abroad. However, the BIF argues that these measures exceed the jurisdiction and legal framework and go against the spirit of the Telecom Act or the Cybersecurity Regulations. The BIF represents several major tech companies in India, such as Meta, Google, and others. However, the telecom companies' association, COAI, has supported the government's new rules, calling them beneficial for national security.

BIF's Key Demands
The BIF described it as disappointing that such wide-ranging rules were issued without any public consultation or user-impact assessment. Forum President T.V. Ramachandran said that while the government wants to strengthen cybersecurity, imposing telecom-like restrictions on OTT services is concerning.

The BIF has demanded that the Department of Telecommunications immediately halt the current deadline for implementing the SIM-binding rules. Furthermore, the Forum says that a formal consultation process should be initiated with all stakeholders.

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