Archive · 29 Jul 2025
Data Protection Law Threatens Journalism: Former Judge
A former judge in India is worried about a new data protection law.
He believes it could make it harder for journalists to do their jobs by limiting access to information, like a lock on important details.
This change affects a law that helps people find out what the government is doing, called the RTI Act.
He thinks this could lead to less transparency and accountability, potentially allowing corruption.
Former Delhi High Court judge A.P. Shah said the data protection law threatens independent journalism.
Shah criticized Section 44(3) of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
This section amends the RTI Act, potentially restricting access to personal information.
Shah argues it weakens transparency and accountability in public administration.
He calls for the repeal of Section 44(3) to safeguard media freedom and the RTI Act.
- Who
- A.P. Shah, former Delhi High Court Judge.
- What
- Concerns over the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP) 2023's impact on journalism.
- When
- Reported on Monday.
- Where
- India
- Why
- Because he believes it undermines the RTI Act, transparency, and media freedom.
Concerns Over the Data Protection Law
Government View (Implied)
Transparency vs. Privacy
Concerns Over the Data Protection Law
The DPDP Act undermines transparency and accountability by restricting access to information under the RTI Act.
Government View (Implied)
The law aims to protect personal data, a necessary balance.
Media Freedom vs. Data Protection
Concerns Over the Data Protection Law
The amendments pose a threat to independent journalism and press freedom.
Government View (Implied)
The act offers a mechanism for data protection, aligning with global privacy standards.
- Act in Question
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP) 2023
- Critic
- A.P. Shah
- Shah's Position
- Former Delhi High Court Judge
- Main Concern
- Impact on RTI Act and Media Freedom
- Specific Section Criticized
- Section 44(3) of DPDP Act
