Constitutionality Of NPR-NATGRID Integration: A Threat To Privacy In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Apr 28
- 1 min read
Surbhi Kaushal, BALLB, Mumbai University, Mumbai
Mahesh Giri, BALLB, Mumbai University, Mumbai
ABSTRACT
Surveillance has occupied much of the discussion in most parts of the world. This paper critically examines the constitutionality of India’s National Population Register (NPR) and the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) framework, with particular emphasis on their implications on the right to Privacy under Article 21 of the right to life and personal liberty mentioned in Part III of the Indian Constitution. While both frameworks have been justified on multiple grounds, such as administrative efficiency and national security, the heat of the arguments has centered around concerns about the absence of accountability, transparency, and adequate safeguards.
The integration of NPR and NATGRID raises several concerns regarding the scale, scope, and purpose of data collection and their usage. The study first analyses both NPR and NATGRID in isolation, concentrating on their objectives, statutory backing, and their implementation. Further, it evaluates the potential consequences of their integration in light of the aggregation of data for profiling and surveillance.
The paper further focuses on the K. S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (Adhaar) case, drawing upon the grounds laid down in the judgment. The paper argues that such integration risks undermining the principles of proportionality, necessity, and informed consent. The paper further compares and analyses the surveillance systems of the USA, China, and the UK. And ultimately argues that the integration of NPR and NATGRID poses a significant threat to privacy and asks for constitutional scrutiny, along with the establishment of robust legal frameworks.
