Amitabh Bachchan’s Caller Tune Sparks Outrage, Govt Limits Play to Twice Daily

A wave of public outrage has engulfed India over the cyber security awareness caller tune featuring the iconic voice of Amitabh Bachchan. Introduced to promote online safety, the 40-second message, played before every call, was meant to educate millions. Instead, it has sparked widespread annoyance, with citizens venting their frustration on social media and helplines, citing its repetitive nature as a daily irritation.

Delays in Emergency Situations

The primary trigger for the backlash has been the delay it causes in emergency calls, a critical concern in a country where every second counts. Reports have surfaced of people struggling to reach ambulances or police during crises, as the tune adds significant wait time. Public complaints, pouring in from urban and rural areas alike, highlighted how this well-intentioned initiative was inadvertently jeopardizing safety, prompting urgent calls for a rethink by the authorities.

Government’s Swift Response

In response to the mounting pressure, the government announced a major decision. The Department of Telecommunications, in coordination with the Ministry of Electronics and IT, has decided to limit the playback of Bachchan’s caller tune to twice daily—once in the morning and once in the evening. This adjustment aims to reduce interruptions while preserving the awareness campaign’s intent. The move, effective from June 27, 2025, reflects the government’s commitment to addressing public grievances promptly.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Caller Tune Sparks Outrage

The new policy is expected to alleviate the strain on emergency services and improve call efficiency, though some worry it might lessen the tune’s educational impact. Telecom providers are rushing to update systems, and officials are exploring alternative methods, like SMS alerts, to sustain cyber security awareness. As India adapts to this change, the incident serves as a lesson in balancing public service messaging with practical needs, with Bachchan’s voice likely to remain a familiar yet less frequent sound in the days ahead.