Privacy as a Fundamental Right in India’s Digital Age
Published Date: 19 May 2025, 12:30 AM
By Viiveck Verma
In an increasingly digital world, the intersection of privacy and security has emerged as a pressing issue, particularly for India, which boasts a burgeoning digital economy of over 1.4 billion people. The debate revolves around how much personal freedom individuals are willing to relinquish in the name of security.
India’s Aadhaar system, the world’s largest biometric identity program, exemplifies this tension. While it has streamlined access to government services and enhanced financial inclusion, concerns over data privacy persist, particularly in light of data breaches that raise questions about the security of personal information. Critics argue that such centralized databases create vulnerabilities that could be exploited by unauthorized entities or government misuse.
Globally, advanced surveillance technologies like facial recognition have stirred ethical dilemmas. They promise enhanced safety but pose significant risks to civil liberties, especially in nations with weak legal frameworks. India’s lack of a comprehensive data protection law heightens these risks, despite the passage of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (2023), which many believe still grants excessive power to the state at the expense of individual rights.
Moreover, the private sector’s role in eroding privacy cannot be ignored. Major tech firms collect vast amounts of personal data, often without informed consent. The rise of services like the Unified Payments Interface further complicates matters, generating data that, while useful, raises questions about responsible usage and ownership.
Balancing technological advancement with privacy rights requires robust legal protections, public awareness, and ongoing dialogue. A comprehensive data protection framework is essential, alongside efforts to educate citizens about their digital rights.
As India positions itself as a global digital leader, it must ensure that technological progress does not overshadow individual dignity and autonomy. The future of India’s democracy hinges on its ability to harmonize innovation with fundamental rights.
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