The Pegasus Probe shall remain undisclosed as the Supreme Court of India decides against its release. The full report of the technical committee’s investigation was submitted today, and the alleged use of Pegasus spyware was discussed in the apex court. However, citing concerns over national security and sovereignty; the SC has refused to make the Pegasus Probe public!
Background: The Genesis of the Pegasus Inquiry
The controversy surrounding Pegasus spyware emerged in July 2021. A collaborative investigation by 17 media organizations known as the Pegasus Project revealed that Pegasus spyware developed by Israeli firm NSO Group was used to target thousands globally. From India, The Wire, was part of this collaborative!
The spyware could infiltrate smartphones, access messages, and calls, and even activate cameras without users’ knowledge.
Allegedly, close to 300 Indian users were Indian citizens. Soon after the report was published, the oppositona parties and LeLi media began accusing the Modi 2.0 government of allegedly spying on journalists, activists, and politicians. In response to public outcry by the opposition, the Supreme Court appointed a technical committee to investigate these claims.
Deep State’s baby – Amnesty International – confirmed Pegasus infection on several devices. Hence, revealing the nexus between LeLi media houses, India’s opposition, and Deep State Assets. However, when the Indian committee examined 29 mobile devices, they found malware in only 5. Moreover, the committee could not conclusively determine whether Pegasus was the malware involved in these devices!
Supreme Court’s Stance: Balancing Transparency and Security
During the recent hearing, the Supreme Court emphasized that any report touching upon the country’s security and sovereignty should not be disclosed publicly. Justice Surya Kant asked why it would be illegal for a nation to use spyware. According to him, the only point of contention would be against whom it was used!
Thereafter, he stressed that the court cannot compromise or sacrifice the security of the nation by making the Pegasus Probe public!
The Court acknowledged the need to address individual concerns. They stated that those who suspect their devices were targeted can apply to get a Yes or No answer. However, it maintained that the broader report will not become a matter of public debate, especially given the sensitive information it contains.
Upholding National Security
The Indian Government consistently cited national security as a reason for not disclosing details about the use of surveillance tools like Pegasus. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that revealing such information could aid terrorist organizations in evading surveillance. He opined that any statement by a nation on use of a particular spyware will prompt enemy organizations. Thereafter, these anit-national organizations will modify their communication modules. Thereby, easily and effectively evading tracking.
The Supreme Court’s decision reflects a nuanced approach to a complex security issue.
Thus, the courts recognize the importance of individual privacy. However, they also acknowledge the paramount need to protect national security – especially in the current geopolitical climate. The SC shall hear the matter next on 30th July 2025. While the Court deliberates on this matter, it remains to be who are deeply shaken by this decision!