As India rapidly digitizes, the question of data sovereignty has never been more critical. While the new Digital Rights Bill is a step in the right direction, we need a more comprehensive data localization framework.
The current approach of allowing cross-border data flows with limited restrictions leaves Indian citizens vulnerable to foreign surveillance and data exploitation. Countries like the EU have shown that strong data protection regulations can coexist with a thriving digital economy.
India, with its massive digital population, has both the leverage and the responsibility to set global standards for data governance that prioritize citizen rights while fostering innovation.