New data law, a barrier to journalistic free speech

Context: Removal of ‘journalistic exemption’ In Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023,

Key concern due to removal of ‘journalistic exemption”:

• DPDP Act require journalists to obtain consent before using personal data for stories.
• This includes details like meetings held, travel records and family investments etc.
• The Act also allows MPs to request deletion of such stories even after publication.
• Government can demand information from data processors, potentially jeopardizing journalists’ confidentiality with sources. in short crisp sentences

The way ahead:

• Lack of transparency in law formulation calls for robust public consultation processes.
• DPDP Act allows government to exempt data processors from its provisions.
• can use this power to exempt journalistic entities, preserving free speech.
• Journalistic exemption should be a part of core law text for clarity and stability.

Source: The Hindu