One year since the Pegasus spyware revelations
- SC will hear case of alleged use of Pegasus spyware software.
- Last year, 17 journalistic organizations alleged use of spyware by the Union government.
What is Pegasus?
- Graded as cyberweapon, it can only be sold to authorized government entities as per Israeli law.
- Indian government has so far neither confirmed nor denied
What do Indian laws outline?
- Indian Telegraph Act, 1885: Government can intercept messages in certain conditions.
- PUCL vs Union of India case: Telephonic conversations are covered by right to privacy, which can be breached only if there are established procedures.
- K.S. Puttaswamy vs Union of India (2017): SC reiterated need for oversight of surveillance.
- Section 69 of IT Act, 2000 Facilitates government interception if it is in
- The interest of sovereignty or integrity of India
- Defence of India
- Security of the state
- Friendly relations with foreign States,
- Public order and for preventing or investigating any cognisable offence.
Conclusion
- Use of Pegasus is illegal as it constitutes unauthorised access under Section 66 of IT Act.