India is a democratic country. It respects the privacy of citizens, regardless of their position. But this seems to be a thing of the past.
Today, power centers are constantly vigilant, keeping a watchful eye on many individuals — be they from the opposition or their own party.
Insiders reveal that even WhatsApp chats of several people are under surveillance, leaving little to no room for privacy.
It’s rightly said, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” The system, as it stands now, is likely to remain unchanged, as anyone who comes to power tends to follow the same path.
Once, during Rajiv Gandhi’s regime, letters exchanged among Sikhs during the Khalistan movement were intercepted.
It was seen as a counter-terrorism effort. However, then-President Giani Zail Singh questioned it, emphasizing the importance of privacy and human dignity. Today, such resistance is absent. Everyone is expected to bow to power.
If someone follows the rule of law or questions the regime’s wrongdoing based on constitutional principles, they may be forced to resign or be falsely implicated in crimes.
The power centers can easily target and harass anyone who does not obey their will.
Bad, worse, or ugly — authorities and leaders now feel compelled to listen to the regime to avoid punishment or harassment.
If they surrender to power today, they may enjoy peace temporarily, but they could face revenge when the regime changes. That is the current plight of the nation.
Even personal chats, private photo sharing between spouses, and family matters are being exposed to certain individuals conducting constant surveillance.
It has taken the form of digital voyeurism and peeping into personal lives—something deeply disturbing and unethical.
Madhunandan Akkishetty
