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India Denies Smartphone Source‑Code Mandate as Industry Points to 2025 Amendment

Officials say no rule requires handing over proprietary code, with consultations on smartphone security still underway.

Overview

  • Industry body MAIT and the IT ministry refuted reports of compulsory source‑code disclosure, citing a June 18, 2025 memorandum that removed such language and shifted to internal security test reporting.
  • A Reuters account referenced 83 proposed security measures including source‑code review and advance notice of major updates, but authorities say no final regulations exist.
  • Responsibility for smartphone security discussions has moved from the telecom department to MeitY, which is engaging manufacturers on what is practical to implement.
  • Analysts and manufacturers warn that forced code access would raise IP and legal risks, could slow security patches, and lacks global precedent across major markets.
  • Digital‑rights groups are pressing for transparency by publishing current drafts and meeting minutes, pointing to the recent rollback of the Sanchar Saathi pre‑install order as context for scrutiny.