ABSTRACT
The emergence of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, biometric surveillance, and big data analytics, has significantly reshaped the landscape of privacy rights in India. This study investigates the impact of these technologies on individuals’ right to privacy, analysing public perceptions, awareness levels, and concerns regarding data security in the digital age. The research employs a survey-based methodology, collecting responses through an online questionnaire structured around Likert-scale questions, with data analysed using SPSS.
The study aims to evaluate the adequacy of existing legal frameworks, such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, in addressing contemporary privacy challenges. It further explores public trust in organizations handling personal data, perceptions of government surveillance, and the demand for stronger regulatory safeguards. Drawing upon landmark judicial precedents, including Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union of India[1], the research highlights key policy implications, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement mechanisms, increased transparency, and public awareness initiatives. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on privacy rights, offering insights for legal scholars, policymakers, and technology regulators navigating the complexities of data protection in India’s evolving digital ecosystem.
KEYWORDS- Right to Privacy, Emerging Technologies, Digital Age, Data Protection, Public Perception.
INTRODUCTION
In India’s digital era, the rapid advancement of emerging technologies has revolutionized how individuals engage with information, services, and each other. However, alongside these advancements comes a critical concern: the impact of emerging technologies on individuals’ right to privacy.
This study delves into the intricate relationship between emerging technologies and privacy rights within the Indian context. From the widespread adoption of social media platforms to the increasing use of biometrics and surveillance systems, technological innovations have redefined the boundaries of personal privacy. Through this examination, we aim to analyze the implications of emerging technologies on privacy rights across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, governance, and beyond. Moreover, we seek to assess evolving regulatory frameworks, societal attitudes, and ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and digital surveillance.
By shedding light on these dynamics, this survey study endeavors to inform policymakers, technologists, and citizens about the challenges and opportunities inherent in India’s digital landscape. It underscores the importance of fostering a balance between technological innovation and individual privacy rights, advocating for transparent governance and robust data protection measures in the digital age.
[1](2019) 1 SCC 1