NEW DELHI - In light of the latest developments, like data protection and privacy, liabilities of network service providers, computer-related offences, and regulation of cyber cafes in India, the Indian Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Shri Dayanidhi Maran, has established an expert committee to review the Indian Information Technology (IT) Act of 2000.
In view of recent concerns regarding provisions in the IT Act related to "Data Protection and Privacy," the panel has proposed amendments with more stringent provisions.
According to a press release by India’s Press Information Bureau, such amendments relate to proposals regarding handling of sensitive personal data or information with reasonable security practices, gradation of severity of computer related offences committed dishonestly or fraudulently and the punishment thereof. The panel has suggested incorporating an additional section to the law concerning breach of confidentiality with intent to cause injury to a subscriber.
The committee has suggested that apart from digital signatures, electronic signatures should be accepted, which will help identify the correct person sending e-mails or other electronic documents.