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Source: The post is based on the article “Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting invites comments on the bill” published in “PIB” on 11th November 2023
Why in the News?
The Union Ministry of Information and broadcasting has invited comments on the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023.
What is the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023?
Aim: To provide for a consolidated framework to regulate the broadcasting services in the country.
Replaces: Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
Specifications | Details |
Expanded regulatory scope | It extends its regulatory purview to cover broadcasting over-the-top (OTT) content and digital news and current affairs currently regulated through IT Act, 2000. |
Regulatory bodies | 1)Establishes ‘Content Evaluation Committees’ for self-regulation. 2) Introduces a ‘Broadcast Advisory Council‘ to advise the central government on violations of program and advertisement codes. |
Penalties | 1)Prescribes penalties such as advisory, warning, censure, or monetary penalties for operators and broadcasters. 2)Reserves imprisonment and/or fines for severe offenses, like obtaining registration with a false affidavit. |
Equitable Penalties | Links monetary penalties and fines to the financial capacity of the entity, considering their investment and turnover for fairness and equity. |
Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities | 1)Promotes the use of subtitles, audio descriptors, and sign language. 2)Establishes a provision for appointing a “Disability Grievance Officer. |
Infrastructure sharing | Introduces provisions for infrastructure sharing among broadcasting network operators. |
Dispute resolution | Establishes a structured dispute resolution mechanism. |
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