PM Modi Optimistic About Data Protection Bill Elevating India’s Global Standing

New Delhi, July 20, 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about India’s global reputation as the Monsoon session of Parliament commences, with the much-awaited data protection bill set to be tabled. PM Modi highlighted the bill’s significance, stating that it directly impacts citizens, particularly the digitally-savvy younger generations.

The data protection bill aims to instill trust in every citizen of the country and elevate India’s standing in the global arena. The legislation has been long-awaited by various segments of society, especially since the Supreme Court’s landmark declaration of the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right in 2016, subject to reasonable restrictions.

The draft of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill was unveiled last year, succeeding its predecessor, the Personal Data Protection Bill, which was withdrawn for compliance-related reasons. The bill underwent rigorous consultations, incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders, before securing the cabinet’s approval for parliamentary submission.

Once introduced in Parliament, the bill will undergo scrutiny by both houses before potentially being enacted into law. It is likely that a parliamentary committee will review the bill before the final voting.

The proposed data protection law seeks to regulate and safeguard personal data of Indian citizens, empowering them with control over their digital information. Its enactment is crucial in the rapidly evolving digital landscape where data privacy and security have become paramount concerns.

PM Modi’s statement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring robust data protection measures and fostering trust in the digital ecosystem. As India embraces technology and data-driven services, this legislation is expected to enhance the country’s global standing and bolster citizens’ confidence in the digital age.