Lok Sabha Passes Telecom Bill Amidst Emphasis on User Protection and Digital Infrastructure Enhancement

Lok Sabha Passes Telecom Bill Amidst Emphasis on User Protection and Digital Infrastructure Enhancement

Asif Iqbal | December 20, 2023 | 09:40 PM IST | Politics | Follow on Google News

Lok Sabha Passes Telecom Bill Amidst Emphasis on User Protection and Digital Infrastructure Enhancement.image/sansad tv

Lok Sabha Passes Telecom Bill Amidst Emphasis on User Protection and Digital Infrastructure Enhancement

The Lok Sabha has passed the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, through a voice vote, aiming to amend and consolidate laws governing telecommunication services, spectrum assignment, and regulatory provisions under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act (TRAI), 1997. Introduced by Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on December 13, the bill seeks to replace archaic laws such as the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act of 1950.

The Bill aims to establish a legal and regulatory framework that prioritizes a secure telecommunications network, fostering digitally inclusive growth. Vaishnaw emphasized user protection as a key aspect of the reform, particularly to tackle fraudulent SIM card issuance, where violations or impersonation could lead to three years of imprisonment along with fines.

Additionally, the Bill streamlines licensing authorization through a single-window system, recognizing the telecommunications sector’s crucial role in driving economic and social development and serving as the gateway to digital services, significantly influencing the nation’s security.

Vaishnaw highlighted that this Bill would bolster India’s digital public infrastructure and enhance national security by addressing the current legal framework governed by laws dating back to the British era.

The legislation also provides a comprehensive framework for standards, conformity assessment of telecommunication equipment, identifiers, networks, and services, emphasizing national security, public emergencies, and safety.

The passage of this Bill coincides with the House’s approval of bills aimed at replacing pre-Independence criminal justice laws—the Indian Penal Code of 1860, Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973, and Indian Evidence Act of 1872. Home Minister Amit Shah, in his response to the criminal law bills, stressed that they align with the constitutional spirit, expressing pride in the opportunity to reform criminal justice laws after 150 years and pilot these bills in the House.

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Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.