📢 WhatsApp’s Big Update on Data Sharing — What Meta Promised in the Supreme Court

G GOWTHAM
WhatsApp and its parent company Meta Platforms Inc. have told the Supreme court of India that they will comply with the Competition Commission of india (CCI) and National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) directions on data sharing, especially with regard to giving users control over their data and consent settings. This comes amid ongoing legal challenges related to WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy update and data sharing practices.

🔍 What Was the Issue About?

The case began after the CCI slammed whatsapp and Meta for imposing a “take‑it‑or‑leave‑it” privacy update in 2021 that allowed cross‑sharing of users’ data with other Meta companies — including for advertising and other uses — without clear user choice. The regulator found this practice to be unfair and violative of users’ privacy rights.

WhatsApp and Meta challenged parts of the CCI’s order — especially directions related to data sharing — before NCLAT and then the supreme Court. While NCLAT modified some parts, including safeguards on consent and privacy, the companies initially sought a stay on those directions.

📅 What Meta & whatsapp Told the supreme Court

At a hearing on February 23–24, 2026, whatsapp and Meta surprised the court by saying they would drop interim applications seeking a stay on NCLAT’s directions and instead commit to complying with them by March 16, 2026. The directions include:

✔ User choice over data sharing

  • Users must be offered a clear opt‑in/opt‑out mechanism before their whatsapp data is shared with Meta or other Meta companies.
  • Sharing data with Meta cannot be a precondition for using whatsapp services.
  • Transparency on what categories of data are shared and why must be provided.
✔ Implementation Timeline

  • Meta and whatsapp promised to implement the required privacy safeguards by March 16, 2026.
  • They also agreed to file compliance affidavits detailing how they’ve followed the directions.
The supreme court accepted the companies’ commitment and allowed withdrawal of their interim pleas, while the main case continues — including whether a five‑year ban on certain data sharing practices should be imposed.

🛡 Why This Matters to Users

This development is a major win for wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital privacy in India for several key reasons:

✅ 1. More Control Over Data Sharing

Users will now have a clear choice before their data can be shared with Meta companies — meaning whatsapp can’t sneak data transfer into terms without explicit consent.

✅ 2. No Forced Data Sharing

Under the direction, data sharing just to continue using whatsapp will not be allowed. Users must be able to withhold consent and still use the app normally.

✅ 3. Transparency and Clarity

Meta has to explain what data is shared, why it’s shared, and for what purpose — not just in fine print buried inside complex policies.

✅ 4. Legal Oversight Continues

The supreme court isn’t ending the case — it will continue hearing whether additional restrictions (like an advertising data ban) should apply. A future April 19, 2026 hearing is expected.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • WhatsApp and Meta have agreed to follow indian data privacy orders from the CCI and NCLAT.
  • Users will get opt‑in/opt‑out choices before any non‑essential data sharing.
  • This compliance must be in place by March 16, 2026, with detailed reports filed after that.
  • The Supreme court continues to oversee the privacy and competition case.
 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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