Why does my app has the READ_PHONE_STATE permission although it's not declared in manifest?

Question

I noticed the READ_PHONE_STATE permission when I uploaded the apk to google play. I have not added it and it is not written anywhere in my manifest or any other file of my p

Answer 1

--- WORKED FOR ME!-- I tried so many things on manifest, which mentioned here and other forums.

At the last, I noticed that the error message, The apk upload error message wants to add "Privacy Policy URL" into Store listing / Privacy policy section. (which checked "Not submitting a privacy policy URL at this time").

So, I add my privacy policy URL from my website, then submit. later, I successfully uploaded my apk.