Why in news
As per new draft of broadcasting bill, News influencers may be classified as broadcasters
The new version is the second draft of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024, which is meant to replace the cable television networks act of 1995
The Bill was first released for public consultation in November 2023, it set out to combine all regulation for broadcasters under one law
The Broadcasting Bill, 2024
First, the Bill expands its scope to classify individual commentators as “Digital News Broadcasters” and content creators as “OTT Broadcasters”
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) can prescribe and change thresholds for subscribers or users, which, when met, require registration
Second, it creates additional compliances for online platforms
Also establishes a new safe harbour regime independent of the IT Act, 2000
In addition to the IT Rules, 2021, it can:
demand registration,
enforce censorship,
even require platforms such as YouTube to frame special compliances not only for news channels but also for creators
This law is designed for the MIB to exercise coercive and total control while outsourcing everyday censorship as a form of compliance to a private apparatus.
Finally, the decision-making process for censorship relies on cumbersome proactive compliances, a system of registrations and private self-censorship
And, on failure or whim, censorship and fines levied by the MIB.
Concerns Over Censorship
The Bill significantly broadens government powers to regulate and control digital content, potentially infringing on free speech and press freedom.
The Bill’s vague language allows for arbitrary enforcement, which can lead to inconsistent and politically motivated censorship of digital content.
The Bill imposes additional compliance requirements on digital platforms and content creators, potentially stifling independent voices and increasing operational costs
The Bill may lead to platforms enforcing government censorship internally, which could result in excessive self-censorship to avoid penalties.
The regulatory process under the Bill is criticized for its lack of transparency, reducing accountability and potentially enabling abuse of power
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