Father Ernest Rosario explained the need for the session to understand the role of laws in regulating the information disseminated through media in the Indian digital media space. 

Mr Prabhakaran shed light on the ever-evolving nature of media and the widespread use of digital media for information sharing. He gave a detailed historical background of the history and nature of the media and its impact on the socio-political fabric of India and the world. “Media is a powerful weapon that can shape the foundation of a democratic system”, said Mr Prabhakaran. He highlighted the need for freedom of speech and expression and the right to privacy of an individual in a democratic nation by citing examples from the works of intellectuals in pre-Independent India, the influence of the ideas of French philosophers such as Voltaire, Montesquieu and Rousseau in France and around the world, and several other examples from prominent legal cases.

He emphasized the need to look at ground realities to understand the scope and impact of digital media laws in contemporary society. When surveillance and tracking via electronic media have become embedded into the various services we avail daily, we must also be aware of how technology can be used and misused by individuals and organizations. “How safe are we in a global cyberspace?” asked Mr Prabhakaran, posing a pertinent question regarding the safety of our personal information and the lack of data protection laws in India. He explained in detail the scope of Article 14, Article 19 (1)(a) and Article 21 under the Fundamental Rights of the Indian Constitution and how it is relevant in protecting an individual’s right to freedom of speech and expression and right to privacy, and its implications in terms of digital media laws in India.

During the question and answer session, Mr Prabhakaran elaborated further on the scope of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in protecting the rights of an individual in the absence of specific laws. He highlighted the need for personal data protection in India and regulating content circulated through OTT platforms that have emerged in the pandemic era. He concluded by stating that he finds pride and joy in the constant association with the Salesian family over the years.