New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has made a sudden about-face, withdrawing the latest draft of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024. This move comes after a wave of public criticism and concerns raised by online content creators, media organisations and opposition parties alike.
The bill, which aimed to regulate broadcasting services in India sparked widespread controversy by attempting to extend its reach beyond traditional television broadcasters to encompass online content creators, including influencers on platforms like X, YouTube, and Instagram. The proposed regulations sought to categorise online influencers as “broadcasters” if their content fell under the current affairs category, subjecting them to the same stringent guidelines as traditional media outlets.
The draft bill was shared with select stakeholders for consultation, but its selective distribution and the lack of open dialogue fueled suspicions of a clandestine agenda. Critics alleged that the government was attempting to stifle freedom of speech and impose excessive surveillance on online content creators. The bill’s provisions, such as the establishment of Content Evaluation Committees (CEC) and Broadcast Advisory Councils (BAC) to oversee content and address complaints, raised further concerns about potential censorship and government interference.
The government’s decision to withdraw the bill reflected the mounting pressure from various stakeholders. Opposition parties, including the Congress, vehemently criticised the bill, labelling it a direct threat to freedom of speech and independent media. Online content creators and digital media organisations also expressed deep concern, highlighting the potential for censorship and stifling of creativity.
The government has stated that it will be open to reviewing certain clauses of the bill and will engage in open consultations with a wider range of stakeholders.
Critics stated that the government takes this opportunity to engage in genuine and open dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure that any future regulations are in line with democratic principles and protect the freedom of expression of all citizens.
Representing over 90 digital news outlets, DigiPub News India Foundation has also written to the minister of information and broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw demanding a conversation about the new bill.
In a press conference last week, the general secretary of the foundation, Ritu Kapur, claimed that the body demanded to be part of the consultation process and alleged that the ministry had a closed-door consultation with choosy stakeholders.