India's Tech Independence: A Double-Edged Sword

India's Ambition India is diligently crafting its own tech solutions, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign tech giants. The government has begun adopting local platforms like Zoho Mail, Koo, and Sandes. This initiative is part of a broader goal to challenge the U.S.-dominated digital landscape.

The Concept of Digital Decolonization

The idea of digital decolonization is appealing—breaking free from foreign control. However, there's a catch. The same tools designed to empower citizens could also empower the government.

Concerns and Criticisms

• Government Overreach: Critics worry about increased government power, especially given the government's history of favoring certain groups.
• Data Protection: While the government claims to protect citizens' data, laws make it easier for authorities to collect data with minimal oversight.

Political Motivations

The ruling party, BJP, claims to protect India from foreign influence. However, their actions paint a different picture:

• Social Media Manipulation: Accusations of using social media to spread their ideology.
• Online Censorship: Criticism for controlling what citizens see online, creating a digital space that favors the government and its supporters.

Global Context

India is not alone in this approach. Countries like China, Turkey, and Russia have also used digital sovereignty to control information, promoting local tech solutions and restricting online speech.

The Struggle for Digital Freedom

While the push for digital self-reliance is crucial, India's current approach is problematic. It uses the idea of self-reliance to control the digital space, silencing critics and favoring certain groups. This has led to a digital environment that is far from free.