Early steps to digital dignity

Draft rules to operationalise the digital privacy law call for wider discussions

Last week, the government released draft rules that will operationalise the digital privacy law passed in 2023. The rules, on which the public can give feedback till February 18, represent an ambitious attempt to protect the country's 800 million-plus internet users. But, like most well-intentioned regulations, they contain both promise and paradox.

Their most striking features emerge in three domains: Protecting children online, erecting stronger obligations to protect user data, and making sure privileged information remains in the hands of an entity no longer than needed. The children's provisions are perhaps the most far-reaching, requiring parental consent for users under 18.