India has scrapped an order making it mandatory for smartphone makers to preload a state-run cyber safety app on new phones after a public furore, BBC reported.

The order gave smartphone makers 90 days to pre-load new phones with its new Sanchar Saathi app which could not be "disabled or restricted", sparking privacy and surveillance concerns. 

The government argued the move was necessary to verify the authenticity of handsets, but cybersecurity experts said it impinged on citizens' right to privacy, according to BBC.