Legal Framework for Surveillance — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

For Prelims, focus on the factual aspects and key legal provisions. Memorize the specific sections of the Indian Telegraph Act (Section 5) and the Information Technology Act (Section 69) that grant surveillance powers.

Understand the core principles of Article 21 and the Right to Privacy, especially the K.S. Puttaswamy judgment and its 'proportionality test.' Pay close attention to the names of landmark judgments (Puttaswamy, PUCL, Anuradha Bhasin) and their key outcomes.

Identify the designated 'competent authorities' (Union/State Home Secretary) for authorizing interception orders and the composition of review committees. Be aware of the duration limits for surveillance orders.

Also, keep track of recent legislative changes like the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and its implications for government exemptions. Practice MCQs that test your knowledge of these specific provisions, judgments, and their direct implications.

Create flashcards for article numbers, act names, and the core principles of each judgment to facilitate quick recall.