Refinement of Digital Personal Data Protection Rules
The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules are set to undergo enhancements aimed at connecting children with technology while safeguarding them from potential dangers in the digital realm, according to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who made this statement on Tuesday. While addressing reporters, he mentioned that the rules will be adapted based on insights gained from their practical implementation.
“We will refine the DPDP Rules further to harness the power of technology for children while shielding them from numerous harms,” Vaishnaw stated.
The government unveiled the draft DPDP Rules 2025 on January 3, and these proposals are available for public consultation until February 18, 2024. Key elements of the draft rules include:
- Digital platforms can handle data concerning a child solely after obtaining consent from a verified guardian or parent.
- The verification process can utilise voluntarily submitted identity and age details, or through a virtual token provided by a legally designated entity or by central or state authorities responsible for maintaining personal information.
Vaishnaw highlighted the success of the token system in several instances, including its application in Aadhaar-based transactions. He elaborated:
“The tokens will be temporary and applicable for one transaction only, after which they will be automatically destroyed.”
Consultative Approach and Privacy Assurance
The minister indicated that sector-specific guidelines may be developed if deemed necessary, contingent on consultations with industry experts and relevant stakeholders. He ensured that there will be no risk to individual privacy resulting from verification using virtual tokens.
Furthermore, Vaishnaw assured that the DPDP Act will not affect whistleblowers, as their protection is enshrined in the law. He added that no restrictions have been established regarding the submission of complaints under the DPDP Act.