The Broadcasting Bill was published on Nov 10, 2023, & public comments were initially invited till Dec 9. However, following representations from various stakeholders, MIB has extended this deadline to January 15, 2024. Gather all, send in your comments to MIB. 2/9
We urge MIB to withdraw this draconian bill. Why?👇
➡️The consultation, which is currently only in English, lacks inclusivity. We push for multilingual publication of the bill for a meaningful consultation process that is more accessible. 3/9
➡️The Bill is laden with ambiguous definitions, vague terms, & excessive rule-making powers. There may be misuse through subjective & selective application of the provisions. We urge MIB to address the uncertainties. 4/9
➡️As if “OTT” content regulation was not enough, the Bill also extends regulatory control to any person broadcasting news through a digital medium. This threatens democratic principles of online free speech, impacting both media companies & individuals. 5/9
➡️The Broadcasting Bill imposes strict rules on “OTT” platforms, leading to disproportionate content censorship, more financial burdens, less user choice, & potentially stifling innovation. 6/9
➡️I think we’ve seen this film before… and we didn’t like the ending. The Union govt's powers on future rulemaking create a skewed power dynamic. We urge MIB to refrain from overbroad provisions that may lead to unbridled censorship. 7/9
Internet Freedom Foundation
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