The central government is preparing to launch a new digital governance framework today aimed at regulating how personal data is collected and used by both private and public entities. The proposed legislation will introduce a “right to explanation” for citizens whose data is processed and new penalties for organisations that fail to secure data properly. Officials say the framework reflects global trends and addresses growing citizen concerns over privacy breaches. It will also define a regulatory body with powers to audit algorithms, require transparency in automated decisions and set minimum standards for data-storage duration. Industry players are expected to respond with concern over compliance costs and innovation trade-offs. Civil-society groups are cautiously optimistic, noting that enforcement and accessible redress mechanisms will determine the policy’s real impact. The minister is scheduled to hold a press briefing after lunch to clarify timelines for phased implementation. Analysts say the move may become a milestone in India’s digital rights regime, especially as economic activity increasingly shifts online.
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