Data Protection Bill's Draft Approved by Centre, Rs. 250 Crore Penalty Proposed on Violations
The Union Cabinet has given its approval to the draft of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill 2023, according to an official source. The bill is now set to be presented in the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament, which is scheduled to take place from July 20 to August 11.
The DPDP bill aims to establish a framework for the protection of personal data in the digital realm. It proposes stringent measures and norms for entities handling personal data and outlines the responsibilities and obligations they must adhere to. The bill emphasizes the importance of safeguarding individuals' privacy and ensuring the secure handling of their personal information.
One significant aspect of the DPDP bill is the provision for penalties. Entities found in violation of the bill's norms may face penalties of up to Rs. 250 crore for each instance of non-compliance. This indicates the government's commitment to enforcing strict adherence to data protection regulations and ensuring accountability among data handlers.
The approval of the DPDP bill by the Union Cabinet is a significant step towards strengthening data protection laws in India. It reflects the government's recognition of the importance of data privacy and the need for comprehensive legislation to address the challenges posed by the digital age. The bill's tabling in Parliament during the upcoming session marks an important milestone in the process of enacting robust data protection regulations in the country.
According to the source, the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) bill incorporates most of the provisions from the previous draft issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for public consultation. This indicates a continuity in the government's approach towards data protection and privacy.
The source also mentioned that government entities will not receive a blanket exemption under the proposed law. Disputes related to data protection will be handled by the Data Protection Board, and citizens will have the right to claim compensation by approaching civil courts. It is important to note that the implementation of the law will involve a gradual evolution, as several aspects will be further defined and refined over time.
Once the law is in effect, individuals will have the right to request information regarding the collection, storage, and processing of their data. This provision empowers individuals to have more control over their data and promotes transparency and accountability among data handlers.
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has expressed confidence that the upcoming Digital Personal Data Protection Bill will bring about significant behavioral changes among platforms in India that have been known to exploit or misuse personal data. He clarified that the inclusion of a government-appointed fact-checking body is not about censorship but rather an opportunity for the government to address misinformation and provide accurate information, which is crucial in a democratic setup.
The minister emphasized the distinction between misinformation and the right to free speech, highlighting the rapid spread and amplified reach of false information compared to the truth. In a democracy, the government needs to have the opportunity to refute false claims that aim to create hatred, incite violence, or foster mistrust. This approach aims to maintain the integrity of public discourse and counter the negative impacts of misinformation.
The recently approved Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) bill is an important development in India's data protection landscape. The bill incorporates most of the provisions from the previous draft, indicating a continuation of the government's efforts to safeguard personal data and privacy.
One notable aspect is that government entities will not receive a blanket exemption under the proposed law, which reflects the aim to establish a level playing field for data protection across all sectors. Disputes related to data protection will be addressed by the Data Protection Board, ensuring an impartial resolution process. Citizens will also have the right to seek compensation through civil courts, empowering them to protect their privacy rights.
Once implemented, the DPDP bill will grant individuals the right to access and manage their data. This means that people can request information about how their data is collected, stored, and processed, enhancing transparency and giving individuals greater control over their information.
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has emphasized the positive impact of the DPDP bill, stating that it will drive behavioral changes among platforms that have previously exploited or misused personal data. He also addressed concerns about the government-appointed fact-checking body, clarifying that its purpose is not censorship but to combat misinformation and provide accurate information to the public. Chandrasekhar stressed the importance of distinguishing between misinformation and the right to free speech, noting that countering false claims is essential to maintain trust and prevent the spread of harmful narratives.
Overall, the DPDP bill aims to strengthen data protection measures, enhance individual rights, and promote responsible data handling practices in India. Its introduction signifies the government's commitment to ensuring data privacy and security while addressing the challenges posed by the digital age.