Adverse Response: Centre Withdraws the New Draft of Broadcasting Service (Regulation) Bill
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The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has withdrawn the proposed new draft of the Broadcasting Service (Regulation) Bill due to widespread public outcry and backlash against the government’s perceived attempt to control online content. The draft bill has ignited intense discussions and controversies regarding the balance between protecting freedom of expression and the government’s authority to regulate it.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued a statement indicating that it had received numerous recommendations, comments, and suggestions, to which multiple associations also provided their input. The ministry has scheduled a series of consultations with various stakeholders to discuss the draft bill.
On November 11, 2023, the draft bill was released to the public for feedback and consultation. The ministry has confirmed that an extended period is available for receiving comments and suggestions until October 15. Following comprehensive consultations, a revised draft will be released.
The opposition claims that a revised draft version was recently shared secretly with a small group of stakeholders. Several posts on social media also alleged that the revised bill was actively being shared, leading to backlash from a segment of content creators. Some online content creators have raised concerns about the bill, stating that it seemed to group them with OTT or digital news broadcasters.
As per reports, the updated draft bill seeks to designate Instagram influencers and YouTubers as digital news broadcasters to delineate their audience. As a result, they would be required to register with the government beforehand and establish criteria for assessing content, sparking worries about potential limitations on freedom of expression.
Digital news broadcasters will be separate from OTT services and registered digital media. OTT platforms, which have creative freedom, will be bound by a program code according to the initial bill draft.
Last week, representatives from the DigiPub News India Foundation and the Editors Guild of India emphasized that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting held closed-door consultations with select stakeholders, neglecting broader discussions with digital media organizations and civil society associations.
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