CJI Surya Kant Warns Cyber Crime Has Evolved Into a 'Mass Phenomenon'
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued a stark warning on Friday, stating that cyber crime has escalated beyond mere criminal activity to become a widespread menace affecting millions across India. Speaking at a national conference in Jaipur, the CJI emphasized that cyber offenses now constitute loot, extortion, and dacoity in the digital realm, demanding urgent collective action from all stakeholders.
Alarming Statistics and the Need for Digital Caution
Highlighting the severity of the issue, CJI Kant referenced data from the Ministry of Home Affairs, revealing that over 66 lakh cyber fraud complaints are currently pending nationwide. He described cyber fraud as no longer a marginal problem but a mass phenomenon that is capturing global attention. The CJI stressed the critical need for heightened digital awareness in today's fast-paced world, where decisions are made in a click and harm can spread at the speed of light.
Drawing from childhood wisdom, he advised: "We were taught — pehle socho phir bolo (think before you speak), samjho phir chalo (understand before you act). These principles are equally relevant in the digital age, serving as a form of protection."
Personal Experience and the Complexity of Cyber Offenses
Sharing a personal example, CJI Kant disclosed that fraudulent websites are frequently created in his name using publicly available photographs. "Every alternate day, I find a new site is created in my name... used to send various messages. After investigation, it was traced back to Nigeria," he revealed, illustrating the complex and transnational nature of cyber crimes.
He underscored the profound impact of such offenses, noting that when an elderly citizen loses lifelong savings to impersonation scams, the injury extends beyond financial loss to emotional, social, and institutional damage. Cyber crimes like deepfake videos also threaten personal dignity and safety, he added.
Judicial Commitment and Legal Framework
CJI Kant affirmed the judiciary's unwavering commitment to combating cyber threats, asserting, "Whatever role the judiciary can play, we will leave no stone unturned." He highlighted the role of State Legal Services Authorities, referencing Article 39A of the Constitution, which mandates access to justice and free legal aid for socio-legal issues.
He questioned why these authorities must intervene, stressing their responsibility to ensure justice in the face of growing digital challenges.
Rajasthan's Initiative: Special Cyber Courts
Earlier at the event, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced the establishment of special cyber courts in the state to tackle the menace effectively. "We will open special cyber courts in Rajasthan. Whoever indulges in cyber crime won't be spared," Sharma declared, signaling a proactive governmental response to the crisis.
Conference Details and Call to Action
The CJI spoke as the chief guest at the 3-day national conference on "Cyber Safety: Awareness, Protection and Inclusive Access to Justice" at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur. Organized by the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority (RSLSA), the conference aimed to foster collaboration among various stakeholders.
In his concluding remarks, CJI Kant urged for a united front against cyber crime, emphasizing that only through collective efforts—combining judicial action, public awareness, and governmental initiatives—can India curb this escalating threat and protect its citizens in the digital age.
