Can Chennai government intercept my WhatsApp messages under Tamil Nadu law?

Interception of WhatsApp messages by Chennai authorities requires authorization under the Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 and the central telegraph rules, with judicial oversight. The Madras High Court has held that interception must be necessary and proportionate, failing which it violates Article 21. Unauthorized interception in Chennai can be challenged before the Madras High Court through a writ petition. The Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 prescribes procedural safeguards including review by a competent authority in Tamil Nadu. The Madras High Court has directed Chennai 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 Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 provides for periodic review of ongoing interception orders in Chennai.