The article explores the challenges of regulating genetic data in the era of CRISPR gene-editing technology. It critically examines India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA) and its shortcomings in safeguarding genetic information. A major concern highlighted is the lack of specific protection for genetic data under the DPDPA. Unlike conventional personal data, genetic information is inherently sensitive and has far-reaching implications beyond the individual. It is relational in nature, meaning it also affects biological relatives and future generations. However, the Act does not classify genetic data separately, failing to provide the heightened security it demands. Another critical issue is the ineffectiveness of traditional anonymization techniques for genetic data. Since genetic sequences are unique and identifiable, even anonymized genetic data can often be traced back to individuals. To address this, the article proposes a Layered Data Classification (LDC) model, which would categorize genetic information based on its risk level and impose stricter security measures accordingly. By analyzing these gaps, the article calls for urgent legal reforms to ensure genetic privacy is adequately protected in India’s evolving data protection landscape. Continue reading Protecting the Code of Life: Reimagining Data Privacy in the Age of Gene Editing