Concerns Voiced Over Draft Broadcasting Services Bill by Media Bodies

Media bodies expressed worry about the draft Broadcasting Services Bill, claiming it aims to impose a multi-layered regulatory system on digital content. Despite reaching out, DigiPub News India Foundation hasn't received government feedback to join consultations. Other key stakeholders also noted the lack of broader discussions with digital media and civil society groups.

Media bodies have raised alarms over the draft Broadcasting Services Bill, arguing that it seeks to establish a multi-layered regulatory framework for digital content.

Addressing a press conference, DigiPub News India Foundation's general secretary, Ritu Kapur, revealed that the organization, representing more than 90 digital publishers, reached out to the government for inclusion in the consultative process but received no response.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has confined consultations to select stakeholders, bypassing digital media organizations and civil society groups, according to Kapur. Editors Guild of India President Anant Nath added that the bill extends the control measures introduced by the 2021 IT Rules.