India Water Foundation backs UN Report on data privacy at 58th Human Rights Council Session
Babushahi Bureau
Geneva (Switzerland), March 17, 2025: At the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council, Dr. Arvind Kumar, President of India Water Foundation, voiced strong support for the Special Rapporteur’s report on the Right to Privacy during an Interactive Dialogue in Geneva.
Dr. Kumar emphasized that data privacy is fundamental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring inclusive development under the SDG principle of "leaving no one behind."
He highlighted that India Water Foundation has recognized this issue since its inception and aligns with the UN’s privacy framework.He also underscored India's proactive stance on data protection, citing the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and the Rules of 2025.
These measures:
- Strengthen individual rights regarding data collection, access, correction, and deletion.
- Mandate transparency from data fiduciaries on usage, consent withdrawal, and complaint mechanisms.
- Protect children’s data by requiring verifiable parental consent through identity and age verification.
Dr. Kumar further advocated for smart card adoption to minimize risks associated with biometric database misuse by criminals, terrorists, or foreign entities.
He also noted that the Union Budget 2025 prioritizes AI, data security, and privacy, reinforcing India's commitment to global digital rights and cybersecurity.