Parliamentary Panel to Review Media Laws in January 31 Meeting

The parliamentary committee on Communications and Information Technology is organised to meet on January 31 to discuss the implementation of laws for all forms of media.

As per the meeting notice, the representatives of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will present their views to the committee. The Press Council of India is also likely to present its views.

Originally set for January 27, the meeting has assumed significance against swift changes in the media, which have been spearheaded by technology and changes in consumer behavior.

Although the specific agenda for the meeting has not been finalized, the review's goal is to assess whether the current law effectively addresses key issues concerning the media.

In 2023, the Ministry introduced the Broadcast Bill for public consultation, aimed at replacing the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. The bill was designed to regulate over-the-top platforms, cable TV, direct-to-home services, internet protocol television, headend-in-the-sky, and radio. However, it was withdrawn following objections from the media industry.

Laws governing India's media and entertainment sector encompass the Cinematograph Amendment Act, 2023; Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995; Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023, and Press Council Act, 1978, for the regulation of films, television broadcasting, and print media, respectively.

Digital media and OTT platforms are governed by the IT Act, 2000, and IT Rules, 2021, while advertisements are regulated by the ministry's advertising code, the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the guidelines of the Advertising Standards Council of India. Intellectual property rights, including copyrights, are protected under the Copyright Act.

In its 38th report dated February 9, 2023; the ministry agreed with the PCI's proposal to create a unified Media Council for all media outlets. However, the ministry ultimately rejected the proposal, citing that media outlets vary in nature and cannot be governed under a single regulatory framework.

The committee, while noting the restrictions of PCI advisories and jurisdiction of self-regulatory bodies like the News Broadcasting Standards Authority (NBSA), which is applicable only to its members, had recommended that the ministry consider the possibility of forming a Media Council to regulate print, electronic and digital media, with statutory powers to enforce its orders as appropriate.