In a significant development, the Lok Sabha introduced the draft Telecommunications Bill, 2023, on Monday, granting the government the authority to assume control, manage, or suspend telecommunication services or networks in the interest of national security. The proposed legislation, aimed at replacing the archaic 138-year-old Indian Telegraph Act governing the telecom sector, had received Cabinet clearance in August, according to media reports.
Notable features of the Telecommunications Bill include the incorporation of over-the-top (OTT) or internet-based calling and messaging apps within the telecommunications purview to enhance user safety. Industry players' concerns regarding the powers of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) were also addressed in the draft before it secured Cabinet approval.
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The bill proposes a revamp of existing rules, suggesting easier processes such as the refund of fees for licenses and registrations if a company decides to surrender its permit. Additionally, the new legislation empowers the government to waive entry fees, license fees, penalties, etc., in the interest of consumers, fostering competition in the market, ensuring the availability and continuity of telecom networks, and upholding national security.
