Right to Privacy: A Fundamental Right in the Digital Era

Abstract

Abstract
In the era of digital revolution, where our mornings do not begin with the rising sun, but with the notification sound of our smartphones, from sending messages on WhatsApp, checking for updates, joining online classes, making payments, every activity in our day-to-day life revolves around our smartphones. By every tap, swipe, and click on our smartphones during our daily routine, we are sharing our personal data and giving consent without thinking for a second about where and how our information may be used. When we willingly tap ‘Agree’ or click ‘Accept’ countless times, few of us fully read the agreement in which we are entering that to what extent our personal data is collected, shared with the other parties. This effortless flow of personal data has created an uncontrolled and unregulated domain of data, this makes digital privacy not just a matter of personal interest, but a fundamental right of every citizen that requires protection under the law. The Supreme Court of India in the landmark case of K.S. Puttaswamy vs. Union of India recognized the Right to Privacy as a Fundamental Right and laid down the foundation for the protection by extending it to digital privacy.