Govt released Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules,2021

What is the News?

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting(I&B) has issued the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021.

About Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules,2021:

• The rules amend the Cable Television Network Rules,1994 with the aim to establish a statutory mechanism for citizens to raise grievances with respect to broadcasted content.

Key Features of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules,2021:

The rules lay down a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism to ensure broadcasters’ adherence to the Programme Code and the Advertising Code: The three-tier mechanism includes:

1. Self Regulation by Broadcasters:
   • The Rules require broadcasters to establish a complaint redressal mechanism and appoint an officer to deal with complaints.
   • A written complaint can be filed to the officer if a citizen is aggrieved by the content of a programme. The officer is bound to respond within 15 days.
2. Self-Regulation by the body of broadcasters:
   • The Rules establish independent bodies constituted by at least 40 broadcasters to act as an appellate body. This body will ensure adherence to the Programme and Advertising Code.
   • These independent bodies can be approached if the complainant was not satisfied with the response of the Broadcaster. They should deal with the case in 60 days.
3. Inter-Departmental Committee:
   • The Rules require the Central government to establish an Inter-Departmental Committee.
   • Headed by: The Committee would be headed by the Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.It will have members from the other ministries.
   • Purpose: The committee has been set up for:
     • Hearing appeals from complainants: If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision of the self-regulating body. S/he can prefer to approach the committee within 15 days of such a decision.
     • Complaint from Central Government: The committee could take up complaints that are referred to it by the Central government.

Source: The Hindu

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