Can Bhubaneswar government intercept my WhatsApp messages under Odisha law?

Interception of WhatsApp messages by Bhubaneswar authorities requires authorization under the Odisha Rent Control Act 1962 and the central telegraph rules, with judicial oversight. The Orissa High Court has held that interception must be necessary and proportionate, failing which it violates Article 21. Unauthorized interception in Bhubaneswar can be challenged before the Orissa High Court through a writ petition. The Odisha Rent Control Act 1962 prescribes procedural safeguards including review by a competent authority in Odisha. The Orissa High Court has directed Bhubaneswar police to obtain proper authorization before seeking data from intermediaries. Victims of illegal interception can seek damages and direction for destruction of unlawfully obtained records. The Odisha Rent Control Act 1962 provides for periodic review of ongoing interception orders in Bhubaneswar.