The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has withdrawn the contentious draft of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024, following widespread criticism from independent content creators and large technology businesses. Concerns were expressed that the proposed measure would give the government more control over internet material, raising debate over the possible harm to free speech and expression.
Last month, the ministry surreptitiously submitted the draft bill to a restricted group of stakeholders for input. However, sources reveal that the ministry has now requested the return of these copies, indicating a rethink of the bill’s terms.
The new draft had expanded its scope from regulating OTT content and digital news to include social media accounts and independent online video creators, requiring them to register with the government. This move led to widespread criticism, with fears of government overreach into digital spaces.
Although the ministry has not officially commented on the withdrawal, a statement posted on social media mentioned ongoing consultations on an earlier draft from November 2023, without addressing the new draft’s retraction. The confusion has left some stakeholders unsure of which version they are supposed to review and comment on.
The draft bill was intended to replace the 1995 Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, but its expanded focus drew significant opposition, both publicly and within the ministry itself. As a result, the government is expected to revisit and potentially rework the bill’s framework before presenting a revised version.
