Data Protection Board Setup Advances as India Strengthens Digital Privacy Enforcement

The government has started laying the foundation for setting up the Data Protection Board of India, a key body under the country’s new digital privacy framework. According to reports, the process to appoint board members is underway, and the required software for a digital-first office has already been developed. This marks an important step toward implementing stronger data protection rules across India’s digital ecosystem.

The government is in the process of finalising the mechanism for identifying, selecting, and appointing the chairperson and members of the Data Protection Board. These appointments will be completed following the necessary approvals from competent authorities. The objective is to establish an independent and effective board that is fully prepared to discharge its duties upon commencement. Although a specific timeline has not been announced, the board is expected to become operational in the coming months.

Alongside this, the government is also consulting industry stakeholders, including large technology companies, to understand their readiness to comply with the new data protection rules. Discussions are focused on compliance timelines and practical challenges. Given the complexity of the digital ecosystem, the government has emphasized that its priority is to implement the law smoothly without causing disruption to businesses or users.

The Data Protection Board will play a central role under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act. The Act sets clear rules on how personal data should be collected, processed, stored, and protected. The board will be responsible for monitoring compliance, investigating data breaches, issuing directions for corrective action, and imposing penalties where required. It is also expected to help maintain public trust in how personal data is handled.

Under the recently notified rules, the central government will form search and selection committees to recommend suitable candidates for the board. These committees will include senior officials and domain experts to ensure balanced and informed decision-making. Final appointments will be made after reviewing the suitability of recommended individuals.

The DPDP Act gives individuals stronger rights over their personal data, including the right to know how their data is used. At the same time, it places clear responsibilities on entities that handle data to ensure security and accountability. Strict financial penalties have been introduced for non-compliance, with fines going up to ₹250 crore for serious violations such as failing to safeguard personal data or report data breaches.

Overall, the upcoming Data Protection Board is expected to be a key pillar in strengthening India’s data protection framework and promoting responsible use of personal data in the digital age.

Information referenced in this article is from The Economic Times