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The Hindu Editorials snapshot

Editorial 1

Too little, much later: on the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025

More than eight years after the Supreme Court declared privacy a fundamental right, the government’s new Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, fail to deliver meaningful progress. Although the 2023 Data Protection Act simplified earlier drafts and offered some user safeguards, it allowed government bodies wide control over citizens’ data and weakened transparency by amending the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The latest rules continue this pattern — delaying most major data safeguards until 2027 while immediately restricting public access to information. These rules were also introduced without sufficient consultation, coinciding with political events that distracted from critical public debate. The weak and dependent Data Protection Board of India, functioning under the same ministry promoting major tech investments, raises serious questions of conflict of interest. Meanwhile, large technology firms are given long timelines to comply. The outcome is disappointing for citizens expecting strong privacy and accountability: while companies and the state gain power over personal data, ordinary individuals remain largely exposed in the digital world, with little real transparency or protection.

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Editorial 2

Swing, but do not miss: on India and the WHO’s Global Tuberculosis Report 2025

India has made progress in reducing tuberculosis (TB) cases, as shown in the World Health Organization’s 2025 Global TB Report, but the country still faces major challenges. TB cases have fallen sharply — a 21% drop since 2015 — yet India continues to carry one-fourth of the world’s total TB burden. States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh record the highest number of cases, while Delhi has the highest infection rate. The problem of drug-resistant TB is serious, with India having the most multidrug-resistant (MDR) and rifampicin-resistant (RR) cases in the world. Treatment success is encouraging, with 90% recovery for new cases and 77% for drug-resistant cases. However, TB deaths remain much higher than the government’s goal of total elimination. Despite missing its 2025 target, India has saved many lives due to better nutrition schemes, adoption of new diagnostic tools, AI-based technologies and improved treatment options. Going forward, bridging diagnostic gaps, tackling social inequality, preventing drug shortages and addressing malnutrition with stronger policies will be vital for India to finally hit the elimination goal.

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The Indian Express Editorials snapshot

Editorial 3

EC has trust issues but to find vote chor, Congress may look in the mirror

The Congress party faced a heavy defeat in the Bihar Assembly election, winning only 6 out of 61 seats it contested. This poor performance prompted Congress leaders to blame the Election Commission and accuse the ruling party of “vote theft.” Ground reports and data indicate that the EC’s handling of electoral rolls and special revisions created distrust, especially with the verification process shifting the burden of proof onto vulnerable citizens. Court interventions were required to ensure fairness. However, the Congress’s “vote chori” claims did not resonate with voters, nor were supported by evidence of widespread malpractices; even its allies refrained from echoing these allegations. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge advocated for respecting the electoral verdict and analysing results, while DMK chief M.K. Stalin highlighted welfare delivery and well-managed campaigns as reasons for electoral success. Analysts suggest Congress’s refusal to address its internal challenges and reliance on conspiracy theories risk further alienating voters and deepening the party’s decline. A vigilant and robust election process is crucial, but self-reflection and honest reform within Congress are necessary for meaningful political renewal.

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Editorial 4

Government’s rethink on Quality Control Orders is welcome and timely

The government’s recent decision to review and revoke some Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is a sensible and timely move. These orders were originally brought in to ensure that products meet safety and quality standards. However, their wide and strict application — even on raw materials and intermediate goods — increased input costs and reduced competitiveness, especially in export-oriented industries like textiles, metals, and machinery. The NITI Aayog and other industry bodies found that QCOs restricted imports but did not boost exports. Many small firms struggled with rising costs and complex procedures, while large firms benefited due to their ability to handle compliance processes. Recognising these challenges, the government recently withdrew QCOs on chemicals and minerals that are vital to the textile and manufacturing sectors. This step can now help industries access cheaper, quality raw materials and strengthen their participation in global supply chains.

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