General Comments by India on Consideration of the Resolution on “Right to privacy in the digital age” at the 48th Session of the Human Rights Council (13th September – 8th October, 2021), delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India

[Geneva, 7th October, 2021]

Madam President,

Privacy is a core element of an individual’s life. India fully recognises and respects the right of privacy, as an essential element of the Right to Life, guaranteed as a fundamental right under our constitution.  

Madam President,

India is committed to inclusive use of digital technologies for achieving our goal of inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development, leading to digital transformation of India. Based on recommendations of a Committee of Experts constituted by the Government, a Draft Personal Data Protection Bill has been tabled in our Parliament and is currently in advanced stages of consideration by the Parliament.

Madam President,

We believe that the design, development, governance and use of digital technologies should be shaped by democratic values and respect for universal human rights. We are committed to development and use of digital and other emerging technologies that yield tangible benefits for society, developed through a multi-stakeholder approach that is adaptive, dynamic, and aligns with universal values, including respect for freedom of expression and privacy.

We welcome the draft resolution A/HRC/48/L.9/Rev.1 as an important initiative to recognize the need and importance of promotion and protection of the right to privacy in the digital age.

I thank you Madam President.

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