In the 85th episode of Jam with Sam, Sampath Iyengar welcomed N.S. Nappinai, an eminent Supreme Court advocate, cyber law expert, and author. Known for her pioneering contributions to technology laws, Nappinai shared her inspiring journey from Chennai to the highest legal corridors. This conversation unveils her career milestones, her thoughts on lawmaking, and her dedication to protecting cyber privacy.
A Chennai Girl’s Foray into Law
Born and raised in Chennai, Nappinai’s journey into law began with Tamil Nadu’s pioneering five-year law course. A self-proclaimed “naughty child,” her professors and peers fondly remember her as studious and disciplined. With a strong inclination towards criminal law, she laid the foundation for a remarkable career, practising for nearly a decade in Chennai before relocating to Mumbai.
Pioneering Cyber Law and Technology Policy
Nappinai is celebrated for her work in cyber law, intellectual property rights, and technology policy. Her book, Technology Laws Decoded, is often referred to as a “bible” for cyber lawyers in India. She believes the future of law lies in emerging fields like cyber security and AI, urging young lawyers to dive into these evolving areas. As an advocate for simplicity in legal writing, she emphasized, “The simpler the law, the better it is.”
Her work extends beyond courts. Nappinai contributes to international policy frameworks and was selected for prestigious fellowships at Cranfield University and Stanford University. These opportunities allowed her to collaborate with global leaders, furthering her vision of accessible and equitable legal systems.
Championing Privacy and Digital Rights
A staunch advocate for cyber privacy, Nappinai played a pivotal role in critical cases like combating child pornography and ensuring electronic evidence integrity. She firmly opposes linking Aadhaar with social media accounts, citing privacy violations and potential misuse. “Privacy isn’t a privilege; it’s a fundamental right,” she reiterated, urging Indians to understand and protect their digital footprints.
Nappinai’s efforts include creating Cyber Saathi, a platform designed to provide free cyber support and advice. Through her training programs for judges, police, and citizens, she actively raises awareness about digital safety.
Moments of Pride in a Legal Career
With a career spanning nearly three decades, Nappinai’s milestones include being appointed as an amicus curiae by the Supreme Court and being lauded for her scholarly contributions. A turning point came early in her career when a senior judge recognized her expertise in a courtroom, a testament to her knowledge and preparedness. Moments like these have cemented her legacy as one of India’s most respected legal minds.
A Visionary’s Take on Cyber Laws
Despite India’s progress in cyber legislation, Nappinai believes there’s room for improvement. Drawing attention to enforcement gaps, she emphasized the need for effective implementation to ensure citizen safety. Surprisingly, she praised Sri Lanka’s cyber laws as exemplary, citing their simplicity and precision as models for other nations to emulate.
About N.S. Nappinai:
N.S. Nappinai is a Supreme Court advocate, cyber law pioneer, and author of Technology Laws Decoded. With over 28 years of experience, she has shaped India’s legal landscape in technology and digital rights. A mentor and policy advisor, her mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of the cyber world.