Parliament Winter Session: Rajya Sabha passes Telecommunications Bill, to replace British-era laws
Parliament Winter Session: Rajya Sabha on Thursday passed the Telecommunications Bill, 2023. The bill aims to amend and consolidate laws governing the development, expansion, and operation of telecommunication services and networks, as well as the assignment of spectrum.
After a brief debate, Rajya Sabha passed the Telecommunications Bill 2023, which also amends certain provisions of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act. The Lok Sabha approved it on Wednesday.
The bill at hand would repeal the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act of 1950.
Responding to the debate, Communications, Electronics, and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that a legal and regulatory framework focusing on a safe and secure telecommunication network that provides for digitally inclusive growth is required.
The bill includes stringent provisions to prevent fraudulent SIM card issuance. Any violation or impersonation will result in three years in prison and a fine. There are also stringent provisions for "spoofing" crimes.
According to Vaishnaw, user protection is a key reform in the Bill.
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The Bill calls for a simplified process and licencing authorization through a single window.
The telecommunications sector is a key driver of economic and social development, as well as the gateway to digital services, and the safety of telecommunication networks is critical to the country's security.
According to Vaishnaw, the Bill will help to improve India's digital public infrastructure, and Digital Bharat Nidhi will help to provide telecom services in saturation mode.
Three laws enacted in 1885, 1933, and 1950 govern the current legal framework.
The bill establishes a framework for standards and conformity assessment of telecommunication equipment, identifiers, networks, and services, as well as provisions for national security, public emergency, and public safety.
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