Supreme Court to Hear Plea Challenging DPDP Act for Weakening Right to Information
The Supreme Court is set to hear a petition challenging Section 44(3) of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. The petitioner argues that this section amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, allowing public authorities to blankly refuse information by categorizing it as 'personal nature.' Critics claim this 'weaponises' the right to privacy to 'disarm' the citizens' right to seek information from the state. The petition contends that this removes the balancing mechanism where public interest could outweigh privacy concerns, potentially leading to a lack of transparency in governance and protecting public functionaries from scrutiny.
Key Points
- Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act 2023 amends the RTI Act to expand the scope of personal information exemptions.
- The petition argues that privacy is being used to protect the state and public functionaries rather than ordinary citizens.
- It claims the amendment violates Article 19 (Right to Free Speech) and Article 14 (Right to Equality).
- The new provision reportedly creates an 'irrebuttable bar' for RTI applications involving identifiable public officials.
Exam Facts
- Relevant Law: Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act of 2023.
- Specific Section: Section 44(3) which amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act.
- Constitutional Articles cited: Article 14 and Article 19.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.