The Delhi High Court begins hearing Chaitanya Rohilla's petition challenging Whatsapp's updated privacy policy.

Court asks the petitioner: What is your grievance? It's a private app, don't join it.
Court: What is the data you feel is going to be compromised?

Petitioner: Whatsapp shares information globally. Everything they gather from us is shared.
Court: Mr. Lal, there are two issues. One is that your personal messages are looked into and shared. Two is that your browsing history is shared.

Petitioner: They analyze browsing history and form an opinion about the user and share that.

Court: All apps do that.
Petitioner: In Europe and the US, Whatsapp gives an option to accept or reject the updated policy. But here in India, no such option is given.

Court: You have an option, don't use the app.
ASG Chetan Sharma appearing for the I & B Ministry says this issue needs analysing.

Sr. Adv. Mukul Rohatgi: I am appearing for Whatsapp.

Sr. Adv. Sibal: I am appearing for Whatsapp, you're appearing for Facebook.
Rohatgi: Either way, I am submitting that the app is completely safe to use. Let the petitioner be reassured that all chats between friends, relatives, etc will be encrypted and safe.
Sibal: Users have the option to engage with the business app or not.
Sibal submits for Whatsapp: This petition itself is not maintainable.

Court: List the case for 25th.
Counsel for Petitioner persists.

Court: I doubt that you have read any of the policies of any of the apps, you'll be shocked as to what all you consent to, and it is all voluntary, if you don't want, don't use the app. I am yet to understand your concern.

More from Live Law

You May Also Like