challenged in several Courts.6 The bill does not explicitly state if it is meant to replace or overhaul this part of the IT Rules, 2021. The extent to which the Broadcasting Bill will alter the discourse and landscape of the IT Rules challenge remains to be observed. As per the draft bill, broadcasters could only broadcast programmes that have been certified by the CEC. Notably, no criteria or qualifications have been provided for co-opting such members, opening the position to possibly anyone who the BAC members may deem fit. After examining complaints, the BAC has to make recommendations to the Union government, which will then issue appropriate orders and directions [Clause 28(2),(3)].

Source: Washington Post January 15, 2024 12:47 UTC