she

The Digital Personal Data Protection Act uses the pronoun "she" to refer to individuals throughout its text. Section 2(y) clarifies exactly what this word means in the context of the law. When the Act says "she" in relation to an individual, it means any individual, regardless of their actual gender. This definition ensures that the rights, duties, and protections outlined in the law apply equally to everyone. By stating that "she" includes a reference to an individual "irrespective of gender," the Act avoids the need to use multiple pronouns in every section. If a provision describes a Data Principal (the individual to whom the personal data relates) and says "she" has a certain right, this right belongs to any person of any gender. The same rule applies to any other individual mentioned in the Act, such as a person acting for a Data Fiduciary (the person or entity determining the purpose and means of processing personal data) or a member of the Board. The definition is drawn this way to keep the legal text simple and concise while remaining completely inclusive of all individuals governed by the law.

Key points

• The Act defines the word "she" when used in relation to an individual. [2(y)]
• The term refers to any individual irrespective of their gender. [2(y)]
• This ensures that any provision using this pronoun applies equally to all persons. [2(y)]

Common misreadings

• A reader might think a provision only applies to women because it uses the pronoun "she", but the definition explicitly states it applies irrespective of gender.