Data Security Must Be Top Priority in the Digital Age

Mumbai, May 2026 : With the rapid rise in the use of artificial intelligence (AI), social media, and digital transactions, the importance of personal data has increased significantly. Data falling into the wrong hands can pose serious risks to individuals, society, and even national security. Highlighting concerns over cybercrime, digital fraud, illegal detentions, and data breaches, Supreme Court lawyer Khushboo Jain stressed that data security must be given the highest priority in the digital era.

She was speaking at a special session held at the Mantralaya conference hall under the ‘Tech-Wari 2.0’ training initiative, where she provided detailed guidance on the importance of data protection in today’s digital environment. The session was attended by Additional Chief Secretary V. Radha from the General Administration Department, along with secretaries from various departments.

During her address, Khushboo Jain elaborated on the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. She noted that the need for such a law arose after the Supreme Court, in 2017, recognised the right to privacy as a fundamental right. This landmark judgment paved the way for a comprehensive data protection framework, resulting in the DPDP Act.

She explained that the law grants several important rights to citizens, including the right to give consent, withdraw consent, access their data, correct inaccuracies, erase data, seek grievance redressal, and appoint a nominee.

Emphasising that data is the property of individuals, she said that complete control over it must remain with them. No institution or company can use personal data without obtaining clear and informed consent from citizens.

She also urged government officials and employees to uphold principles of transparency, accountability, and security while functioning in their dual roles as ‘data principals’ and ‘data fiduciaries’. She added that strict penalties are предусмотрed under the law for data breaches or violations.

A large number of officials from various departments attended the session, actively engaging in discussions and seeking clarifications on data protection-related issues.