Critics sound alarm over Broadcasting Services Bill

Over the last month, many concerns have been raised over the introduction of the draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023. This, many experts believe, will bring censorship to the OTT platforms.

The abbreviation OTT stands for “over-the-top” and refers to technology (OTT services or platforms) that delivers streamed content via internet-connected devices.

Last month, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting government introduced the Bill, which is said to be the “new version” of a nearly 30-year-old law called the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.

The MIB claims to have introduced the Broadcasting Bill to cater to the evolving needs of the broadcasting sector and in light of the technological advancements in the sector.

Earlier as the OTT platforms did not exist, rules formulated catered to what kind of content will be aired on television. According to the old law, content should reflect ‘Indian values’ and if there were three complaints against a channel’s content, the government’s committee could simply revoke the licence.

However, according to the proposed Bill regulatory processes will be streamlined and will extend its purview to cover the OTT content and digital news.

Explaining how the Bill is a huge concern, especially in term of censorship, senior editor at The Wire Seema Chisti wrote, “As a charter for censorship, the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 (Broadcast Bill) drafted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is a remarkable instrument.

“Released for public comment on November 11, this is an omnibus set of rules aimed at shutting down any news or views even mildly not in the service of those who happen to be in government. Comments can be given until January 15.”

The deadline was initially December 8 and was later extended to January 15.

The Bill comprises six chapters, 48 sections, and three schedules. As per the Broadcasting Bill, a broadcasting services or network will only be allowed to provide service or operate if the Union government has registered or provided an intimation to the broadcaster or broadcasting network operator. TheCitizen