India targeted high-profile journalists with Pegasus spyware: Amnesty

 

India's Government Under Scrutiny: Pegasus Spyware Targets High-Profile Journalists

In a startling revelation, a recent investigation by Amnesty

International and The Washington Post has shed light on India's government employing the notorious Pegasus spyware to target high-profile journalists. The findings, made public on Thursday, expose the repeated use of Pegasus against journalists, raising concerns about the implications for press freedom and privacy in the country.

Persistent Use of Pegasus Spyware

The investigative report highlights the continued use of the highly invasive Pegasus spyware by the Indian government to surveil journalists. This surveillance tactic is not isolated, with instances documented of journalists being targeted more than once, indicating a sustained effort to monitor their activities.

Targeting Journalists, Including Previous Victims

Among the alarming findings is the revelation that the spyware was used against journalists who had previously fallen victim to attacks using the same Pegasus software. This recurrence underscores the persistent and targeted nature of the surveillance, potentially compromising the privacy and safety of journalists involved.

Implications for Press Freedom

The use of Pegasus spyware against journalists raises serious concerns about press freedom and the ability of journalists to operate without fear of unwarranted surveillance. In a democratic society, a free press is essential for holding institutions accountable and fostering transparency. The use of such invasive tools can have a chilling effect on journalism, inhibiting investigative reporting and the free flow of information.

Global Scrutiny on Surveillance Practices

The revelation adds India to the list of countries facing global scrutiny for employing advanced surveillance technologies against journalist s and individuals. The misuse of powerful spyware tools has prompted discussions about the need for international regulations and oversight to prevent abuse and protect fundamental rights.

Call for Accountability and Transparency

In response to the findings, there have been calls for accountability and transparency regarding the use of spyware by government agencies. Civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and media organizations are urging authorities to address these concerns, investigate the surveillance activities, and ensure that individuals' rights to privacy and freedom of the press are safeguarded.

The use of Pegasus spyware against high-profile journalists in India underscores the evolving challenges faced by the media in an era of digital surveillance. As the revelations spark conversations about the need for safeguards, oversight, and accountability, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between national security concerns and the protection of democratic values, including freedom of the press. The global community continues to grapple with finding the right balance in the use of powerful surveillance tools while upholding fundamental rights and liberties.