Sim Binding Rule: The Indian government recently introduced a new rule called “SIM Binding,” which was praised by telecom companies like Jio and Airtel. However, Google, Meta, and WhatsApp have now opposed this rule.
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Sim Binding Rule: The Indian government recently implemented a new rule requiring messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal to remain permanently connected to the SIM card in a user’s phone. Companies must comply within 90 days. Telecom companies are appreciating this rule, but major tech companies like WhatsApp, Google, and Meta are deeply upset. Organizations on both sides are openly speaking out against each other. Let’s understand why telecom companies are happy with this decision and why prominent tech companies are unhappy.
Telecom companies congratulated
A Times of India report (Ref.) states that COAI, an organization representing Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone-Idea, has welcomed the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) decision. They say that SIM binding will significantly curb fraudulent numbers, spam messages, and online scams. COAI says that a strong link will now be established between the user, their number, and their device, enabling the detection of fraudulent activities. The three major telecom companies have also congratulated DoT.
Companies like WhatsApp and Telegram are unhappy.
On the other hand, the Broadband India Forum (BIF) has criticized this rule as deeply flawed. The BIF includes major tech companies like Meta (WhatsApp’s parent company), Google, and Amazon. The BIF says this rule was hastily enacted without consulting anyone. According to them, this rule is neither legally sound, nor technically simple, nor convenient for the public.
What is SIM binding rule?
According to the new rule, a circular issued on November 28, 2025, states that the SIM card used to create accounts on apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, and ShareChat must be inserted in your phone. Without the SIM card, the app will not work. Furthermore, if you’re using a laptop or the web version, you’ll be automatically logged out every six hours, requiring you to scan a QR code to log in again. Companies must implement this system within 90 days.
What objection does BIF have to this rule?
BIF has demanded that the government immediately halt this rule and engage in discussions with all stakeholders. They argue that the Telecom Act does not provide any power to regulate OTT apps (services like WhatsApp). This is the responsibility of the Ministry of Information Technology. Making such a significant change through a mere circular without enacting a law is wrong. BIF stated that imposing regulations on some apps and not others will force fraudsters to switch to other apps, without any benefit.
What problems could people face?
The report claims that this rule may cause some problems for people. For example, if you go abroad and use a local SIM, WhatsApp won’t work. If your old phone breaks and you insert a new SIM card, the app will still be disabled. Children or elderly people’s phones that don’t have a SIM card will also face problems. If you’re using a laptop over Wi-Fi or broadband, you’ll have to log in every six hours. Privacy is also being questioned, as every app you use will now be linked to your phone’s SIM card.
