Telecom Bill 2023 Will Redefine OTT Scope, Allow Centre To Take Control Of Services Over National Security: All You Need To Know

With the aim of replacing the archaic Indian Telegraph Act, the Telecom Bill, 2023, once introduced, is poised to reshape the regulatory landscape governing the telecommunications sector in India.

The proposed Telecommunications Bill grants the government discretionary powers to waive entry fees, licence fees, penalties, and other obligations,

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The Narendra Modi government introduced the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, in the Lok Sabha today, marking a significant departure from the longstanding Indian Telegraph Act that has governed the telecommunications sector for 138 years. Anticipated to address contemporary challenges and regulatory requisites in the swiftly evolving telecommunications industry, the proposed legislation has been a focal point of discussions since its approval by the Cabinet in August.

According to government sources quoted by Moneycontrol, the President has been briefed on the impending introduction of the Telecommunications Bill 2023, scheduled for today in the Lok Sabha. This move underscores a crucial step toward the modernisation of the regulatory framework overseeing the telecommunications sector in the country.

Notably, the draft Telecommunications Bill 2023 seeks to redefine the scope of telecommunications by incorporating over-the-top (OTT) services, such as internet-based calling and messaging apps. This measure is intended to bolster user safety in response to contemporary technological advancements. However, concerns were initially raised regarding the proposed limitations on the authority of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), a matter that has reportedly been addressed and resolved, according to government officials.

Key provisions within the draft legislation also focus on streamlining regulations, including the refund of fees for licences and registrations in the event of a company surrendering its permit. This approach indicates a concerted effort to strike a balance between regulatory requirements and creating an enabling environment for the telecommunications industry in India.

The proposed Telecommunications Bill grants the government discretionary powers to waive entry fees, licence fees, penalties, and other obligations in the interest of consumers, market competition, the availability or continuity of telecom networks, and national security.

Moreover, the draft legislation empowers the government to assume control, manage, or suspend telecommunication services or networks in the interest of national security. With the aim of replacing the archaic Indian Telegraph Act, the Telecommunications Bill 2023, once introduced, is poised to reshape the regulatory landscape governing the telecommunications sector in India.