In Andhra Pradesh, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was accused of using Pegasus spyware in 2019 to spy on members of the then opposition party.Members of the YSRCP demanded that the then Telugu government investigate the use of Pegasus spyware to spy on political opponents.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has alleged that the Telugu Desam Party bought Pegasus spyware in 2019.The AP Legislature has appointed a House committee to investigate the allegations.
However, the TDP has denied the allegations.
In the past, the Indian government has reportedly used Pegasus spyware to spy on about 160 politicians, journalists, lawyers and activists.
The New York Times reports that the Indian government bought spyware from Israel in 2017 as part of a defense deal with Israel.The issue was also hotly debated in Parliament.
The news caused a stir across the country.
Pegasus malware can collect messages, photos, and emails from iPhones and Android phones.
It has the ability to record calls and even secretly activate microphones.This software can be used to track the movements of criminals and terrorists.
The NSO says it sells only to the military, law enforcement and intelligence agencies in countries with the best record of protecting human rights.In October 2021, the Supreme Court appointed an independent panel of experts to investigate the allegations against the Government of India.
However, the Indian government has also been saying that it has not bought Pegasus spyware.Sridhar said the big question was whether the government was actually spying on people from different communities in situations where national security was under threat.
Article 21 of the Constitution states that a person shall not lose his life or his liberty except subject to law.Telephone tapping violates individuals’ right to privacy as well as their right to freedom of speech.When the freedom of speech of individuals is violated it falls under illegal action.
“It is intolerable for governments and those in power to even encroach on personal freedom.If such spyware is left unchecked, it could pose a threat to women and children.
