The law does not protect a person’s privacy unless a wrong has been done.
ARTICLES OF LAW by BHAG SINGH (The Star, March 13, 2007)
A PERSON may feel offended to find his photograph published in a magazine or a newspaper without his permission or knowledge. But can the person take action against the publisher?
In the eyes of the law, there is a basis for seeking remedy and relief. The relief referred to here is compensation for damage suffered, and orders, such as an injunction to prevent the publisher from continuing what is claimed to be a wrongful act.
A photograph of a person resting by the poolside or gardening in his backyard may be said to be an invasion of privacy. But if the photograph was that of a person checking in at the airport or waiting for a bus at the roadside, this may need to be looked at differently.
Generally, the law does not protect an individual’s privacy unless a recognisable wrong has been done. If the photographer entered the complainant’s premises and caused damage, this would, in law, be trespass for which action can be taken.
