Lawyer Sanjeev Teeluckdharry has announced that the controversy surrounding the mandatory re-registration of SIM cards in Mauritius will be brought to the attention of Dr. Ana Brian Nougrères, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to privacy.
Dr. Nougrères is currently visiting Mauritius until December 4. She will be informed about the constitutional complaint filed by Rama Valayden and Ivor Tan Yan against this government-imposed decision.
Dr. Nougrères’ mandate involves examining national policies and laws related to government surveillance, interception of communications, and the collection of personal data.
She will also consider privacy and freedom of expression concerns raised by the public and opposition.
To gather information, she will hold meetings with government representatives and members of civil society.
The presentation of her preliminary observations is expected to take place during a press conference on December 4, following which her final report will be submitted to the United Nations.
The SIM card re-registration process has sparked concerns as it requires individuals to provide personal information and photos.
Valayden and Yan argue that this grants the state access to citizens’ personal data and allows for the interception of private communications, violating constitutional provisions on the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and the protection of communication confidentiality.
The case is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court on January 11, 2024.
Additionally, Dr. Nougrères will also be informed of another related matter concerning the use of biometric identity database, which was previously addressed by the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC).
Source: Le Mauricien
