Introduction
On November 8, 2025, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar School of Law (BASL), Nagpur, under Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU), hosted a webinar on “Evolving Regime of Information Technology & Cyber Law” featuring Dr. Mahendra Limaye, Advocate and techno-law specialist. The session was organized under the guidance of Smt. Rutunja Bhelave and Shri. Ankit A. Shripatwar, Program Coordinators, BASL.
The webinar aimed to introduce law students to the growing importance of cyber law in a digital society increasingly dependent on technology and data.
Key Highlights from the Session
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Understanding the IT Act, 2000
Dr. Limaye traced the origin of India’s Information Technology Act, 2000 — one of the earliest legislations based on the UNCITRAL Model Law on E-Commerce. Initially enacted to support e-commerce and online communication, it has evolved to cover cybercrimes, digital signatures, and data protection. -
Core Definitions and Concepts
He emphasized key terms under Section 2, including computer, computer network, computer system, and intermediary, explaining their crucial role in understanding liabilities under cyber law. -
Digital Signatures and Hash Functions (Sections 3–42)
Explaining encryption and decryption using public–private key mechanisms, he compared it to a bank locker system, helping students visualize how digital signatures authenticate and secure electronic communication. -
Civil and Criminal Liabilities (Sections 43 & 66)
The webinar clarified how Section 43 deals with civil wrongs like unauthorized access, data theft, or introducing viruses, while Section 66 criminalizes the same acts when done dishonestly or fraudulently. -
Repeal of Section 66A
Dr. Limaye discussed the landmark Shreya Singhal v. Union of India case, which struck down Section 66A as unconstitutional for violating free speech. -
Adjudicating Authorities and Jurisdiction (Section 46)
Civil disputes under the IT Act are adjudicated by designated IT Secretaries of each State, not regular civil courts. Appeals lie before TDSAT, then High Courts, and finally the Supreme Court. -
Emerging Relevance of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
With the repeal of Section 43A, the new Data Protection Act introduces a comprehensive legal framework for safeguarding personal data and user consent — a vital area for future legal professionals. -
Cyber Crimes & Offenses (Sections 65–67F)
He explained cybercrimes such as source code tampering, identity theft, cyber terrorism, and online obscenity, citing the severity of punishments ranging from 3 years to life imprisonment. -
Advice for Law Students
Dr. Limaye urged students to treat cyber law as an emerging and high-demand field, combining legal knowledge with technological awareness. He advised building early familiarity with current judgments, NCRB data, and RBI’s Zero Liability Circular for digital frauds.
Conclusion
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where Dr. Limaye answered questions on digital signatures, data privacy, and cybercrime reporting through helpline 1930. His practical insights bridged the gap between statutory law and real-world application, inspiring students to explore techno-law as a professional path.
About the sepaker
Adv. (Dr.) Mahendra Limaye is a techno-legal cyber law expert (Ph.D.) and FDPPI-certified data privacy professional. He heads the Cyber Awareness Organisation, advises government and private bodies on IT Act, DPDP 2023, GDPR/CCPA compliance, and appears before Adjudicating Officers, district courts, and High Courts in cyber and IPR matters.