The New Data Protection Bill: A safe and trusted internet for the people

Overview

Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, addressed the inquisitive scholars of the Indian School of Public Policy on the new Data Protection Bill. Min. Chandrasekhar is no stranger to the tech world as he was an IT entrepreneur before pursuing his political career. His experience in the tech field facilitates his perceptive observations on the growing tech world, the dangers it poses, and hence the need for regulation.

An Evolving Digital Era

The internet is a wide network that connects the entire world like never before. This connection and closeness are often viewed in a positive light. Tech platforms allowed for innovation, and the improved connectivity across the globe nurtured growth and development in various sectors. One would believe that these platforms have only done good. However, this is not the case. As pointed out by Min. Chandrasekhar, tech platforms can harm the less digitally savvy population. The rapid growth in these platforms has left them more or less unregulated and running wild with no protective measures in place.

As a result, the time for policymakers to shine comes. To ensure the internet is a safe and trusted space, regulations need to be put in place as the internet cannot be left to its own devices. The state has to step in. This is where the new Data Protection Bill enters the field. The Bill aims to protect the data of consumers and their right to privacy, create a more efficient space to address grievances, and create a safe and trusted internet space.

The Real Challenge for Policy Makers

As the interaction continued, Ashmit Kumar from CNBC interviewed Min. Chandrasekhar on the Bill. The burning questions of the extent of the government’s regulation and intervention were all answered by the minister. He anticipated this and stated that the government does not want to moderate content before Mr. Kumar asked about this. The minister also clarified that the government will not be intervening in the business models of tech platforms. These platforms are free to follow the regulations and if they choose not to they can still continue the business. However, if the consumers are harmed then they can sue these platforms. Min. Chandrasekhar emphasised that the government wants to collaborate to create a safe and trusted internet.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The interaction ended with a Q and A session where the scholars of ISPP enquired regarding the specifics of the bill and other issues surrounding the topic. Interacting with Min. Rajeev Chandrasekhar gave the scholars a valuable experience as he shared his thoughts during his address. This interaction helped the scholars learn beyond the classroom and get a glimpse of the real-world proceedings of policymaking in the policy world.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Data Protection Bill?

This Bill is to ensure the protection of consumer data, and bridge the gap between the consumers and the service providers, to build trust. Overall, its purpose is to protect consumers from harm and enable them to voice their grievances, to ensure the internet is a safe and trusted space.

When will the Data Protection Bill be enforced?

New drafts of the Data Protection Bill are still in progress and updates are being made. There is no confirmed date for its enforcement.