Can Ludhiana government intercept my WhatsApp messages under Punjab law?

Interception of WhatsApp messages by Ludhiana authorities requires authorization under the Punjab Rent Control Act 1995 and the central telegraph rules, with judicial oversight. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that interception must be necessary and proportionate, failing which it violates Article 21. Unauthorized interception in Ludhiana can be challenged before the Punjab and Haryana High Court through a writ petition. The Punjab Rent Control Act 1995 prescribes procedural safeguards including review by a competent authority in Punjab. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed Ludhiana 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 Punjab Rent Control Act 1995 provides for periodic review of ongoing interception orders in Ludhiana.