Lok Sabha Passes Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha has passed the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, which outlines the responsibilities of entities handling personal data and safeguarding individual rights. The proposed bill imposes penalties ranging from Rs 50 crore to Rs 250 crore for violations.

Here are some key provisions of the bill:

• Data protection: The bill requires firms handling user data to protect it, even when stored with third-party processors. In case of a data breach, companies must inform the Data Protection Board (DPB) and the affected users.
• Data of children and physically disabled individuals: Data of children and physically disabled individuals require consent from guardians for processing.
• Data transfer: The bill grants the Center the authority to restrict the transfer of personal data outside India.
• Appeals: Appeals against DPB decisions will be heard by the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal.
• Penalties: Penalties for breaches, failure to protect personal data, or failure to inform the DPB and users can reach up to Rs 250 crore.

The bill aims to balance individuals’ rights to protect their data with the need for lawful data processing.