DPDP reference

Section 37: Power of Central Government to issue directions

Last checked 6 Nov 2026

On a written reference from the Board stating that a Data Fiduciary has been penalised in two or more instances and advising blocking in the interests of the general public, the Government may, after a hearing and with written reasons, direct blocking of public access to information that enables that Data Fiduciary to offer goods or services in India (s.37(1)). An intermediary that receives the direction must comply (s.37(2)).

Applies to
A Data Fiduciary penalised two or more times, and intermediaries.
Starts
13 May 2027 (G.S.R. 843(E), item (c)).
Penalty
Up to ₹50 crore (s.33, Schedule item 7).
Source
Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (22 of 2023), section 37; G.S.R. 843(E), commencement

Questions

Can a website be blocked under the DPDP Act?

Yes. After a Board reference following penalties in two or more instances, and a hearing, the Government may direct blocking (s.37(1)).

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Not legal advice.