Storm over social media

There can't be arbitrary rules just because privacy right is not absolute

WhatsApp, the instant messaging service, has challenged the new social media intermediary rules in the Delhi High Court. WhatsApp claims a provision that forces service providers to identify “the first originator of Information” in posts is unconstitutional and violates privacy. While the government was quick to clarify that it had no intention to violate the ‘right to privacy’, that’s unlikely to inspire much confidence. The problem is the way the new rules, which apply to any online platform with over five million users in India, have been introduced without meaningful public consultation. Compliance with rules with far-reaching effects takes time.