India's Tech Independence: A Double-Edged Sword

India is working hard to create its own tech solutions. The government wants to reduce dependence on foreign tech giants. They have started using local platforms like Zoho Mail, Koo, and Sandes. This push for self-reliance is part of a bigger goal to challenge the U. S. -dominated digital world. The idea of digital decolonization sounds good. It means breaking free from foreign control. But there's a catch. The same tools meant to empower people could also give the government more power. This is a big concern, especially with a government that has been criticized for favoring one group over others. India has a history of fighting for independence. So, people support the idea of digital freedom. But the government's actions show it's more about politics than true freedom. They talk about protecting people's data. But their laws make it easier for the government to collect data with little oversight. The ruling party, BJP, says it's protecting India from foreign influence. But their actions show a different picture. They have been accused of using social media to spread their ideas. They have also been criticized for controlling what people see online. This has led to a digital space that favors the government and its supporters. India is not the only country doing this. China, Turkey, and Russia have also used digital sovereignty to control information. They promote local tech solutions and use laws to restrict what people can say online. India seems to be following a similar path. The struggle for digital freedom is important. But India's current approach is problematic. It uses the idea of self-reliance to control the digital space. While they talk about empowering people, in reality, they are silencing critics and favoring one group. This has led to a digital space that is not truly free.