BIF Urges Govt to Pause SIM-Binding Rollout, Seeks Wider Consultations

The Broadband India Forum (BIF) on Tuesday raised strong objections to the government’s recent directive requiring users of messaging applications to maintain a continuous, active SIM card linked to their accounts. The industry body has called for an immediate pause in implementation timelines and urged the Centre to hold comprehensive stakeholder consultations before moving forward.

According to BIF, the directive—intended to curb cyber fraud originating from overseas—creates “serious concerns” related to jurisdiction, consumer impact, and added compliance burdens for digital platforms. The forum argued that the SIM-binding requirement imposes obligations that go beyond the remit of the Telecom Act and the objectives of the Telecom Cyber Security Rules.

Representing major global technology companies including Meta and Google, BIF’s latest position underscores growing tensions between digital platforms and telecom operators. In contrast, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) supports the government’s move, saying the directive will strengthen national security and protect citizens from cyber threats.

The disagreement sets up another industry standoff as the government aims to tighten cybersecurity frameworks while balancing user rights and operational feasibility for tech companies.