Judicial Scrutiny Intensifies: Supreme Court Issues Stern Warning to WhatsApp Over Privacy Policy Violations

In a landmark development, the Supreme Court of India has delivered a forceful admonition to WhatsApp and its parent company Meta, signaling heightened judicial oversight over digital privacy standards. The court's intervention stems from ongoing litigation concerning a substantial penalty of ₹213.14 crore imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) in 2021. This penalty was levied against WhatsApp for alleged violations of user privacy through its updated policy framework, which critics argue compromised data protection norms. The current proceedings involve consolidated appeals and cross-appeals from all parties, reflecting the complex legal and regulatory dimensions of the case. Legal analysts interpret the court's stern language as a clear directive to uphold stringent privacy safeguards, emphasizing the judiciary's role in protecting citizens' digital rights against corporate overreach. This case underscores the escalating tension between global tech giants and national regulatory bodies, with potential implications for data governance and consumer protection laws worldwide. The Supreme Court's stance is expected to influence future policy enforcement and set precedents for balancing technological innovation with fundamental privacy rights.