Meta Platforms Inc. has appealed to the NCLAT against the Rs 213.14 crore penalty imposed by the CCI for abusing its dominant position through WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy, which mandated expanded data sharing with Meta. The CCI deemed this a “take-it-or-leave-it” approach, violating user autonomy and competition laws. Meta and WhatsApp were directed to cease unfair practices, restrict data sharing for five years, and provide detailed transparency in their policies. The case, deemed significant for the industry, will be heard on January 16, 2025.
The Delhi High Court on Monday (23rd Dec) ordered the suspension of fraudulent social media accounts and websites falsely offering Reliance Retail dealership applications. The court tasked the cyber cell to investigate and report back, while also directing banks to suspend associated accounts. Victims reported financial losses due to the scams, prompting legal action against the impersonators.
Today, On 6th December, Umar Khalid, arrested in September 2020 regarding the Delhi riots, argued before the Delhi High Court that there are no allegations of violence against him and emphasized his peaceful intent. His defense highlighted a lack of evidence connecting him to any violent acts, asserting his speech invoked non-violence principles instead.
Today, On 14th November, the Supreme Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation seeking to ban WhatsApp for non-compliance with new IT Rules. The petition, which raised security concerns and questioned the app’s encryption, was rejected by the Court, allowing WhatsApp to continue its operations despite claims of potential risks and misinformation.
The All India Bar Association (AIBA) criticized a Madras High Court judge’s outburst during a virtual hearing, calling it inappropriate. AIBA urged the Chief Justice of India to create a monitoring committee, address breaches of confidentiality, and ensure respectful courtroom behavior. Concerns were raised about the implications for judicial conduct and advocate rights.
Today, On 22nd August, Members of the SCBA Executive Committee objected to a resolution signed by Kapil Sibal regarding the RG Kar Hospital incident, claiming it was not presented for consideration. The resolution expressed concern over prevailing malaise and hoped to prevent similar incidents across the country. The Supreme Court also criticized the handling of the case by the West Bengal police.
The Kerala High Court ordered 28 lawyers to provide free legal services as a remedy for their contempt of court, after they apologized for shouting abusive slogans against a Chief Judicial Magistrate. The court found their apology insufficient and proposed this measure, which the lawyers accepted while ensuring their right to practice law.
Today(on 4th July), in the Delhi High Court, WhatsApp challenged India’s 2021 IT Rules, contesting the requirement to disclose information origins, emphasizing privacy concerns. Counsel Tejas Karia represented WhatsApp before Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, highlighting potential impacts on user privacy rights.
The Kerala High Court launched ‘KHJ-Daily,’ providing certified reported judgments daily via WhatsApp to improve accessibility to legal rulings. The service aims to reach judges, legal practitioners, scholars, and the public. Building on the success of ‘High Court Chronicles,’ this initiative contributes to legal reporting and education through technology.
