In a significant development regarding data privacy, WhatsApp and its parent company Meta have informed the Supreme Court of India that they will comply with regulations concerning user data sharing. During a court hearing, WhatsApp's representatives stated that they will now require explicit user consent before sharing any data with other Meta companies. This move aligns with the directives issued by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), indicating a shift towards a more user-centric approach to data privacy.

The Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joy Malya Bagchi, was told that WhatsApp will establish a consent-based framework for data sharing that adheres to the guidelines set by the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). This new framework will empower users to decide whether or not their data can be shared with third parties, marking a potential change in the landscape of how personal data is handled by tech companies in India.

Furthermore, WhatsApp has taken steps to withdraw its petition seeking a stay on the NCLAT's ruling, demonstrating its commitment to abiding by Indian regulations. The company reiterated that it will implement the necessary guidelines by March 16, showcasing an effort to build trust among users regarding their data privacy and consent in an increasingly digital world.