Messaging platform WhatsApp has said it will comply with regulatory directions in the ongoing dispute over its data-sharing policy. The company announced that it will follow the guidelines issued by Competition Commission of India by March 16. The statement was made during a hearing before the Supreme Court of India.
Kapil Sibal Presents Company Affidavit
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal informed the court that the company has filed an affidavit claiming it had not violated user privacy by sharing data for advertising purposes, as alleged by the competition regulator. Taking note of the submission, the court directed the company to file a formal compliance affidavit and scheduled the next hearing in April.
Origin of 2021 Privacy Policy Dispute
The case is linked to the controversial 2021 privacy policy, when concerns were raised over data-sharing practices by WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta Platforms Inc.. The competition watchdog had alleged that the company imposed a “take it or leave it” policy by enforcing terms of data usage without obtaining proper user consent.
FCRF Launches Flagship Certified Fraud Investigator (CFI) Program
CCI’s ₹213 Crore Penalty Challenge
In this matter, the Competition Commission of India had imposed a penalty of ₹213 crore on Meta. The order was later challenged by WhatsApp and Meta, while the regulator also contested certain findings of the appellate tribunal.
Supreme Court’s Privacy Rights Emphasis
The Supreme Court had earlier made strong observations regarding digital platform data policies, emphasizing the importance of privacy rights. The court stated that protection of personal privacy cannot be compromised in the country.
Platform Compliance and Data Security Mandates
The bench clarified that technology platforms must comply with Indian laws and ensure the security of user data. During the hearing, the court also remarked that using millions of users’ data without adequate safeguards could be considered a form of private information exploitation.
Broader Data Protection Implications
The government and regulatory bodies have been working to strengthen data protection norms for social media and digital communication platforms. Experts believe the outcome of this case could influence the future framework of digital privacy laws in India.
Next Steps and Ongoing Scrutiny
The company’s counsel assured the court that necessary changes would be made in the data-sharing process in accordance with regulatory directives. However, WhatsApp reiterated its earlier position that it has never violated user privacy.
The next hearing in the case is expected in April, when the company is likely to submit its compliance report. The dispute remains under close scrutiny of legal and technology policy experts as it involves critical issues related to digital privacy and data security.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
