Delhi HC Recognizes Right to Be Forgotten

The India — Delhi High Court has recognized the 'Right to Be Forgotten' as an integral part of the fundamental right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution. This landmark judgment, delivered by Justice Sachin Datta, mandates that individuals cannot suffer perpetual reputational harm due to indefinitely searchable digital records. The court ruled that search engines like Alphabet Inc. and legal database platforms such as Indian Kanoon must de-index and mask personal information from online judicial records when continued accessibility causes disproportionate harm to privacy, dignity, and reputation. The ruling balances privacy rights with the principle of open justice, clarifying that transparency does not mean perpetual identifiability through name-based internet searches. It also specifies exceptions where such relief may not be available, including cases involving offenses against women or children, breaches of public trust, or other matters of overriding public interest. This decision is expected to become a landmark precedent on digital privacy and online reputation in India.