International and national laws relating to e signatures and e contracts with special reference to India

Abstract

International and national laws pertaining to e-signatures and e-contracts play a crucial role in facilitating electronic transactions and ensuring the legal validity of such documents. In India, specific regulations govern the use and acceptance of e-signatures and e-contracts. newlineOn the international front, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law on Electronic Commerce provides a framework for electronic signatures and contracts. Several countries, including India, have adopted this model law or similar legislation based on it to regulate e-transactions. newlineIn India, the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) and its associated rules, serve as the primary legislation governing e-signatures and e-contracts. Under the IT Act, electronic signatures are deemed legally valid and enforceable, provided they adhere to certain requirements such as using a unique identification method and maintaining the integrity of the information. newlineIn conclusion, both international and national laws ensure the validity and enforceability of electronic documents, enabling businesses and individuals to carry out transactions in a digital environment securely. newline newline