Is Free Internet a “Double-Edged Sword” for Young People?

The citizen platform “Pa tous nou SIM Card” has raised serious concerns regarding the government’s initiative to provide free Internet access to young individuals aged 18 to 25. This alarm came amidst ongoing delays in a Supreme Court decision regarding the re-registration of SIM cards, casting a shadow on the implications of the government’s new plan, which the collective deemed potentially hazardous.

The group warned of the hidden dangers in this seemingly attractive initiative, suggesting that it could have lasting and detrimental effects on the youth and their privacy.

They emphasized the need for caution, asserting that while the offer may appear beneficial, it might come with significant risks.

It is crucial to note that the judiciary has mandated a status quo while reviewing a constitutional complaint filed by attorney Pazhany Rangasamy.

This complaint is challenging regulations surrounding the re-registration of SIM cards and raising concerns about the risks associated with the collection and use of citizens’ personal data.

The Pa tous nou SIM Card collective is fearing that young individuals must provide their personal information, including photographs, to gain access to free Internet. Linda Lam, the group’s spokesperson, expressed her apprehensions, stating, “The timing is troubling.

Why target so many young people with elections on the horizon?

We urge them to be cautious. They might not be working now, but in a few years, all their information will be on record.”

The collective clarified that their stance is apolitical and aims solely to raise awareness among young people about potential threats.

They also question the role of the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) in data collection, asking,

“Why should young people, who are not paying taxes yet, have to provide their information to the MRA?”

The constitutional complaint filed by Rangasamy is set to continue on September 30 with witness testimonies.

Following the hearing, new dates will need to be established for oral arguments, which may delay the final judgment until December or later.

The collective is left wondering whether the government’s initiative, which requires young people to (re)register their SIM cards, could be a contempt of court by contravening the status quo order issued by the Chief Judge.

Source: l’Express