Originally, the government directed that users would log out of the Web-versions of the messaging apps on a 6-hour cycle and re-login using the QR code
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Dado Ruvic
The government is looking at extending the time period for SIM-binding for messaging platforms, following the removal of the 6-hour log-out requirements from devices.
The Telecom Ministry is discussing internally on how to increase the time period. Maybe it will go from 6 hours to 12 hours, but it will be implemented,” Asheesh Pathak, Additional Director General (Telecom), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Mumbai LSA told businessline on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai.
The implementation of the SIM-binding provisions was extended with industry players pushing back on it citing adverse impact on user experience.
SIM-binding Measures
In anticipation of World Telecommunications Day, Pathak was speaking about the government measures employed and those being discussed within this year to ensure a safe digital ecosystem. During this talk, Pathak stressed the importance of SIM-binding among other measures to address the issue of mal-actors via social media platforms.
The SIM-binding norms were introduced in December 2025 to prevent the misuse of telecommunication identifiers, particularly on messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Arattai, Sharechat, Josh, Jiochat and Signal.
Originally, the government directed that users would log out of the Web-versions of the messaging apps on a 6-hour cycle and re-login using the QR code. Then, in April, the government said it would replace fixed-period logout with an immediate logout based on risk-based analysis. The development had come as a breath of fresh air to stakeholders worries about the impact on user-experience. However, Pathak stressed that the logout measure is an important aspect of the compliance norm.
Reaching Consensus
“Platforms argued that the repeated logout would harm users. Since users did not say anything, the matter is left between the government and the platforms. We will implement it because it is a matter of cybersecurity,” said Pathak.
Further, contrary to the QR code and risk-analysis approach, Pathak said users would only have to activate the SIM and receive an SMS on their device during the regular verification process.
“This simple measures would complete the process every time but the platforms did not agree. Still, there will be enforcement,” said Pathak, hinting at regular conversations between stakeholders.
For their part, apps such as ShareChat and Arattai had confirmed rollout of new features as per the compliance norms. WhatsApp also reportedly began a beta-testing for new features. However, the ecosystem failed to arrive at a consensus on the nitty-gritties of the law as the representative body, Broadband India Forum, flagged concerns and suggested alternative measures such as stronger SIM-KYC enforcement and coordinated enforcement across telecom operators, financial intermediaries and law-enforcement agencies.
Published on May 15, 2026
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