Personal Data Will Not Be Shared with India: Nalinda Clarifies Digital ID Project
17-Jul-2025.
Claims that citizens’ personal data will be shared with India under the Digital National Identity Card project are entirely baseless. Similar allegations were made when the Suwaseriya ambulance service was introduced.
Minister and Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa stated that although India has provided grants to the Digital ID project, it has never exerted any pressure regarding procurement processes. Those making such accusations may seek redress in court, he said.
Speaking at the weekly Cabinet press briefing held on July 15, he further explained:
Former MP Wimal Weerawansa fears that his personal information, such as name and date of birth, may be leaked. However, there is no cause for concern. The government accepts full responsibility.
Personal data is held by the Department for the Registration of Persons, which is a Sri Lankan, not Indian, institution. Through the national infrastructure, this department verifies individuals’ data.
India is cooperating fully in the Digital ID project, providing 50% of the funding as a grant. Companies from India involved in the project will be selected only through competitive tenders.
The Sri Lankan government remains responsible for the project, and there is no reason for anyone to fear data misuse. Under the Personal Data Protection Act No. 9 of 2022, the government is bound to protect data security and confidentiality.
Anyone suspecting their data has been shared or disclosed to a foreign entity can file legal action under this Act.
Minister Nalinda Jayatissa also remarked that Weerawansa’s fear is not surprising. When the Suwaseriya ambulance service was launched in 1990, claims were made that drivers and pilots would share data with India. Did that ever happen?
Regarding procurement, no undue pressure has been applied by India. Sri Lanka engaged in discussions about India’s technological capabilities before restarting the project.
All processes have been conducted transparently, and any stakeholders are invited to engage in dialogue with the government, he said.
