NHRC Seeks Nationwide Probe Into AI Project Over Children’s Data Privacy Concerns

The National Human Rights Commission has issued notices to all states , Union territories , and key central ministries over alleged risks to children’s , privacy , and personal data arising from the use of artificial intelligence in educational programmes.

The action follows a complaint concerning a collaboration between US-based AI firm Anthropic and Indian education NGO Pratham. The partnership reportedly involves an AI-driven system known as the Anytime Testing Machine , designed to analyse handwritten , student , responses and academic records to support learning assessments .

The complaint alleged possible vulnerabilities in the collection , processing , storage , and potential cross-border transfer of minors’ sensitive information , warning that inadequate safeguards could expose children to data breaches or misuse . The petition emphasised that such practices must be examined under India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act , which places strong obligations on entities handling personal data , especially that of minors .

Taking cognisance, the Commission observed that while innovation and technology adoption in education are important, projects involving children must comply with legal protections , education policy , and fundamental rights standards. It stressed that data handlers must ensure transparency , obtain valid consent , and clearly inform individuals about the purpose , usage , and available grievance mechanisms .

The NHRC has directed chief secretaries and UT administrators to investigate the matter and ensure that no data gathered by NGOs or partner organisations working with governments is used in violation of Indian law. Authorities have also been asked to review existing agreements , memoranda , and partnership frameworks involving such organisations.

Separate notices were issued to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the Department of School Education and Literacy, and the Department of Higher Education, seeking detailed action-taken reports within two weeks.

The development reflects growing scrutiny of AI deployment in schools, signalling that regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring that digital innovation does not outpace child protection , ethical standards , and data security obligations in India’s rapidly evolving education landscape.