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A licence raj for digital content creators
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Context
The Union government is focusing on digital content creators following the 2024 general election, proposing the Broadcasting Regulation Bill, 2024, to control online political commentary that might influence voter preferences.
Influence of Digital Media
- Survey Insights: CSDS-Lokniti surveys show 29% of respondents consume political material daily on digital platforms, challenging traditional TV dominance.
- Platform Usage: WhatsApp (35.1%), YouTube (32.3%), and Facebook (24.7%) are frequently used for political content, highlighting the growing impact of digital media.
- Government Concerns: The Union government, recognizing the threat to its power, is seeking to regulate digital creators under the new Broadcasting Bill.
Legal and Regulatory Moves
- Existing Regulations: The IT Rules, 2021, expanded MeitY and MIB's powers over digital content, including encryption and content blocking.
- Recent Amendments: The government created Grievance Appellate Committees in 2023 and introduced a "fact-checking amendment," which the Supreme Court has stayed.
- New Bill Introduction: The Broadcasting Bill, 2024, aims to enforce stringent controls over digital content creators, requiring registration and compliance with MIB directives.
Implications of the Broadcasting Bill
- Scope Expansion: The Bill classifies individual commentators as "Digital News Broadcasters" and content creators as "OTT Broadcasters," demanding registration based on user thresholds.
- Safe Harbour Regime: It introduces a new compliance regime independent of the IT Act, enabling broad censorship powers for MIB.
- Vague Provisions: The Bill's vague provisions risk arbitrary enforcement, creating a bureaucratic and politicised system of digital control.
Mains Question
Q. Evaluate the potential impact of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024, on digital freedom in India. How might this legislation alter the balance between government control and democratic expression in the digital age?
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