Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Intensifies Draft Broadcasting Bill Finalization Efforts

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is pushing forward to finalize the Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, first released in November 2023. After receiving substantial feedback, the ministry extended the deadline for input to October 2024. The bill aims to overhaul existing broadcast regulations, including OTT and digital news.

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is ramping up its efforts to finalize the Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, initially presented for public comments on November 10, 2023. The ministry had called on various stakeholders, including associations and the general public, to provide their insights on the draft bill and its explanatory notes.

This call for feedback garnered a substantial number of recommendations from a wide range of stakeholders. To ensure these inputs are thoroughly considered, the ministry is conducting a series of consultations with those involved. Acknowledging the importance of inclusive feedback, the ministry has extended the deadline for submitting comments and suggestions to October 15, 2024. This extension aims to allow stakeholders more time to engage with the draft and share their perspectives.

Upon completion of this extended consultation period, a revised draft of the bill will be published, incorporating the detailed consultations and feedback received. The proposed draft bill by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting aims to provide a comprehensive framework for regulating broadcasting services in the country. It seeks to replace the existing Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and other prevailing policy guidelines governing the sector.

The bill streamlines regulatory processes, extends its scope to cover Over-the-Top (OTT) content and digital news, and introduces contemporary definitions and provisions for emerging technologies. It proposes the establishment of Content Evaluation Committees and a Broadcast Advisory Council for self-regulation, different program and advertisement codes for various broadcasting network operators, accessibility measures for persons with disabilities, and statutory penalties, among other regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)