“LEGITIMACY OF DIGITAL SIGNATURES AND E-CONTRACTS IN INDIA”
AUTHOR – MANASI SHEKHAR INAMDAR, D.E.S. SHRI NAVALMAL FIRODIA LAW COLLEGE, PUNE
BEST CITATION – MANASI SHEKHAR INAMDAR, “LEGITIMACY OF DIGITAL SIGNATURES AND E-CONTRACTS IN INDIA”, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (12) OF 2025, PG. 194-202, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.
Abstract
“Digital signature And E- contracts: Securing trust in a paperless world.”In India, the legitimacy of digital signatures and e-contracts was established with the enactment of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which recognized electronic records and digital signatures as legally valid. This is similar to the traditional paper-based contracts. Digital Legitimacy of digital signatures and e- contracts in India is that they are legally valid and enforceable under the Information Technology Act, 2000, which grants electronic records and legal status as traditional signatures. The Indian Contract Act, 1872, and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, also recognize the validity of e- contracts and digital signatures, making them crucial part of India’s digital economy.In India, e-contracts and digital signatures are legally recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000. They are enforceable like physical signatures, provided they meet authentication standards, ensuring security, authenticity, and legal validity in electronic transactions.Research on the legitimacy of digital signatures and e-contracts in India faces challenges related to ensuring uniformity in legal recognition across various jurisdictions and industries. Additionally, concerns over the security, privacy, and potential for fraud in digital transactions continue to hamper the full acceptance and trust in these electronic systems.Technological advancements and security measures enhance the legitimacy of digital signatures in Indian e-contracts.Possible reforms for digital signatures and e-contracts in India may include stronger cybersecurity measures, broader legal recognition of new technologies, simplified compliance, improved global interoperability, and enhanced dispute resolution to ensure greater trust, security, and efficiency in digital transactions.The researcher has under taken the subject to critically examine the legitimacy of digital signatures and e- contracts in India, with a focus on their legal, social, and economic implications.
Key Words – Cross- border digital transactions, Digital Signatures, E- contracts, Electronic Records, Information Technology Act, 2000, Security Protocols.