Information Technology Act Section 21 — Licence to issue 1[electronic signature] Certificates

CHAPTER VI REGULATION OF CERTIFYING AUTHORITIES

Cyber Law

Summary

Sub-section (1) allows any person to apply to the Controller for a licence to issue electronic signature Certificates, but this is subject to the conditions in sub-section (2).

Sub-section (2) states that a licence will not be issued unless the applicant meets the requirements set by the Central Government regarding qualification, expertise, manpower, financial resources, and other infrastructure facilities needed to issue electronic signature Certificates.

Under sub-section (3), a licence granted under this section has three conditions. Clause (a) says the licence is valid for a period prescribed by the Central Government. Clause (b) says the licence cannot be transferred or inherited. Clause (c) says the licence is subject to terms and conditions specified by regulations.

Official Text

(1) Subject to the provisions of sub-section (2), any person may make an application, to the Controller, for a licence to issue 1[electronic signature] Certificates.

(2) No licence shall be issued under sub-section (1), unless the applicant fulfils such requirements with respect to qualification, expertise, manpower, financial resources and other infrastructure facilities, which are necessary to issue 1[electronic signature] Certificates as may be prescribed by the Central Government.

(3) A licence granted under this section shall—

(a) be valid for such period as may be prescribed by the Central Government;

(b) not be transferable or heritable;

(c) be subject to such terms and conditions as may be specified by the regulations.