Non-personal data likely to be dropped from new data law

Non-personal data, or anonymised datasets that shield the identity of an individual, are not likely to be a part of the upcoming data protection law currently being finalised by the Union ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY), officials familiar with the matter said.

“The government has been very clear that the data protection law must not create roadblocks or breaks in development of the Indian economy,” an official said on the condition of anonymity. “The law was formulated for personal data and it is not likely to contain references to non-personal data.”

The official added that the draft law will need a review in the post-pandemic era, and that the “government is examining and studying all the provisions.”