Ministry of I&B, Extends Deadline for Feedback on New Broadcasting Bill to October 2024

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in India has extended the deadline for public feedback on the Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill. Initially released for comments on November 10, 2023, the ministry had invited input from various stakeholders, including industry associations and the general public.

In response, the ministry received a wide range of suggestions and is now conducting consultations to thoroughly review the feedback. To ensure that all voices are heard, the ministry has extended the deadline for submitting comments and suggestions to October 15, 2024. This extension is intended to give stakeholders more time to engage with the draft bill and provide comprehensive input.

After the consultation period ends, a revised draft of the bill will be published, incorporating the feedback received. The proposed bill aims to create a unified framework for regulating broadcasting services in India, replacing the existing Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995 and other guidelines currently in place.

Key provisions of the draft bill include streamlining regulatory processes, expanding coverage to include Over-the-Top (OTT) content and digital news, and introducing new definitions and provisions for emerging technologies. It also proposes the establishment of Content Evaluation Committees and a Broadcast Advisory Council for self-regulation, differentiated codes for programs and advertisements, accessibility measures for persons with disabilities, and statutory penalties for non-compliance.