Overview

• On August 1, 2025, COAI petitioned the Department of Telecommunications to bring messaging apps under a dedicated authorisation within the Unified License framework.
• COAI described platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal as the weakest link in India’s communications security chain because they escape traditional telecom oversight.
• It cited an incident in Pahalgam where intercepting satellite phone signals helped track terrorists as proof of the need for consistent regulation across communication channels.
• Under the proposal, OTT providers would face domestic traffic retention, local infrastructure and lawful interception requirements mandated by the Telecommunications Act 2023.
• The Department of Telecommunications has not yet responded to COAI’s licensing demand.