Jyotiraditya Scindia has clarified that the government will not relax SIM card linking norms or relax the mandatory six-hour logout rule for web messaging platforms, stressing that national security takes precedence over revenue considerations.
Speaking to the media off-camera, Scindia said that “there is no thought of relaxing the mandatory log-out of web sessions of more than six hours”, adding that “the rules remain the same”.
He explained that the log-out requirement applies only to virtual connections on the web and PC versions of the applications, and not to direct connections on mobile phones.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) also ruled out any extension of the February 28 compliance deadline.
SIM binding mandate
The DoT issued the directive on November 28, 2025, under the Telecom Cybersecurity Rules, 2024. The order requires OTT messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal to remain continuously linked to the user’s active SIM card. If the original SIM card is removed or deactivated, the messaging service should stop working on that device.
Additionally, the web and laptop versions of these apps must automatically log out every six hours, requiring users to re-authenticate via QR code verification.
The compliance period falls between February 26 and 28, 2026 – 90 days from the date of issuance – and companies must submit compliance reports by March 28.
Industry bodies representing messaging platforms have cited concerns that SIM binding could disrupt user experience and services. However, the DoT stressed that the rules were drawn up after public consultation and are being implemented as a national security measure.
“SIM card linking is essential to prevent fraud and ensure security. There can be no compromise on national security,” the officials said.
National security over revenue
Scindia stressed that security concerns outweigh any potential revenue implications for the government or telecom operators. “Security issues take precedence on the basis of national interest when compared to potential revenue impacts,” he said.
On the issue of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) subsidy sought by some telecom companies, the minister said the DoT was acting under the Supreme Court ruling in the Vodafone Idea case. He added that any other operator seeking similar relief could “go the same way.”
Spectrum auction schedule
In the next spectrum auction, Scindia confirmed that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had submitted its recommendations. The DoT will now take a look at the issue, including across different spectrum bands and reserve pricing.
“These recommendations will be evaluated and the specific timetable will be released at a later date,” the minister said.
Payment for satellite services
Scindia also spoke about the government’s push to roll out satellite communications services in India, saying he was “excited to start satellite services”.
He explained that launching services depends on two main factors: determining the price of spectrum allocation and ensuring that all security obligations are met. Once both conditions are met, spectrum can be allocated to operators.
The DoT has already prepared preliminary security norms for satellite communications operators, and compliant operators will be allowed to provide services once the spectrum allocation is cleared.
