Context

• Justice K S Puttaswamy, former Judge of Karnataka High Court and lead petitioner in the fundamental ‘Right to Privacy’ case passed away on 28.10.2024 at the age of 98.
• He was appointed as the first Vice-President of the Bengaluru Bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT).

 Right to Privacy

• The right to privacy is a fundamental right that gives every individual the right to keep his personal information, thoughts and lifestyle confidential. This right is essential for the dignity and freedom of the individual.

Right to Privacy in Indian Constitution

• The right to privacy is not explicitly mentioned in the Indian Constitution, but it is considered a right falling under the "right to life and personal liberty" under Article 21.

Supreme Court decision

• Puttaswamy vs Union of India case: In a landmark judgement in 2017, the Supreme Court declared the right to privacy as a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution.
• Aadhaar Card: After this judgement, schemes like Aadhaar card started being seen in the context of the right to privacy.

Importance:

• Personal liberty: The right to privacy gives a person the right to live and develop freely.
• Dignity: It helps in maintaining the dignity of the individual.
• Security: The right to privacy protects the individual from unnecessary interference.
• Development: It gives the individual the opportunity to express and develop his thoughts and feelings freely.

Violations of the right to privacy:

• Government surveillance: Surveillance of citizens by the government is considered a violation of privacy.
• Misuse of data: Using personal data without permission is also a violation of privacy.
• Social media: Disclosing personal information on social media can also be a violation of the right to privacy.

Challenges to the right to privacy

• National security: The right to privacy can be violated in the name of national security.
• Modern technology: Personal information can be easily collected through modern technology.
• Legal framework: A strong legal framework is required to enforce the right to privacy.