New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has invited comments on the draft ‘Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill 2023’. Experts in the field, broadcasting service providers and the public can send comments within 30 days, the central government said.
Information released by the Central Government in this regard: ‘Cable Networks (Regulation) Act 1995’ has been in force for 30 years. It serves as the primary frame for monitoring content in linear broadcasting, including cable networks. However, significant changes have taken place in the broadcasting industry in the intervening period. Technological advancements have introduced DTH, IPTV, OTT and various other integrated new platforms.
Broadcasting industry, especially cable TV. With digitization, there is an increasing need to streamline the structure. This ensures ease of doing business. Recognizing the need for a more integrated approach, a new, comprehensive law is needed to replace the existing framework.
Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has proposed the ‘Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Draft Bill, 2023’. The draft bill will provide a unified framework to regulate broadcasting services in the country. Also, it seeks to change the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and other policy guidelines that currently govern the broadcasting industry in the country.
The Bill expands its scope to include over-the-top (OTT) content and digital messaging. Also introduces contemporary definitions and rules for emerging technologies. It has been prescribed to impose statutory penalties etc.
The bill consists of six chapters, 48 sections and three schedules. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is committed to usher in a new era of transparency, self-regulation and future-ready broadcasting services in the country through the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023.
The Ministry welcomes comments and suggestions on the above Bill from a wide range of stakeholders including industry experts, broadcasting service providers and the public. The central government said that comments can be sent to jsb-moib@gov.in within 30 days from the date of publication of this press release.
