Section 19 of ITA, 2000 : Section 19: Recognition Of Foreign Certifying Authorities

Explanation using Example

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario to demonstrate the application of Section 19 of The Information Technology Act, 2000. Imagine a foreign company, "SecureSign", which is a Certifying Authority that issues electronic signature certificates in its home country. Now, SecureSign wants to expand its services to India.

As per sub-section (1) of Section 19, the Controller in India, after obtaining the approval of the Central Government and following due procedure, can recognise SecureSign as a Certifying Authority for the purposes of the IT Act in India. This recognition is made official through a notification in the Official Gazette.

Once SecureSign is recognised under sub-section (1), any electronic signature Certificates issued by SecureSign will be considered valid under the IT Act in India, as per sub-section (2).

However, if SecureSign contravenes any of the conditions and restrictions under which it was granted recognition, the Controller, after being satisfied of such contravention, can revoke SecureSign's recognition. This revocation will also be notified in the Official Gazette, as per sub-section (3).