In February 2025, the Broadcast Services Regulation Bill, 2023 was introduced in the Parliament. What is a key provision under this draft legislation?​

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Unified regulation of cable, satellite and OTT platforms

Explanation:

• The Broadcast Services Regulation Bill, 2023 aims to consolidate and modernize India's broadcasting laws by establishing a unified regulatory framework for various platforms, including cable TV, satellite channels, and Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms.
• The bill seeks to replace the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and extend its regulatory purview to encompass OTT content and digital news and current affairs, which were previously regulated under the Information Technology Act, 2000. This consolidation is intended to streamline the regulatory process and ensure consistency across different broadcasting mediums.
• Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of Content Evaluation Committees (CECs) for self-regulation, the formulation of program and advertisement codes, and the creation of a Broadcast Advisory Council (BAC) to oversee compliance and address grievances. These measures aim to promote transparency, accountability, and accessibility in broadcasting services.
• The bill also introduces accessibility measures for persons with disabilities and statutory penalties for non-compliance, reflecting a comprehensive approach to modernizing the broadcasting sector in India.

Information Booster:

• Unified Regulatory Framework: The bill's primary objective is to create a single, cohesive regulatory structure that encompasses all forms of broadcasting, including traditional cable and satellite services, as well as digital platforms like OTT services. This approach is designed to address the evolving landscape of media consumption and ensure that all platforms adhere to consistent standards.
• Content Evaluation Committees (CECs): To uphold content quality and compliance, the bill mandates that broadcasters establish internal CECs. These committees are responsible for certifying content before broadcast, ensuring it aligns with established program and advertisement codes. The composition of these committees is to include representatives from diverse social groups, including women, minorities, and child welfare organizations, to promote inclusivity and sensitivity in content.
• Broadcast Advisory Council (BAC): The BAC is proposed as an overarching body to oversee the implementation of the regulatory framework, provide guidance to broadcasters, and address public grievances. This council aims to serve as an intermediary between the government, broadcasters, and the public, fostering a balanced and fair broadcasting environment.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: Recognizing the diverse needs of the audience, the bill includes provisions to make broadcasting services accessible to persons with disabilities. This includes requirements for subtitles, sign language interpretation, and audio descriptions, ensuring that content is accessible to all viewers.
• Statutory Penalties: To enforce compliance, the bill proposes statutory penalties for violations of the program and advertisement codes. These penalties are intended to deter non-compliance and maintain the integrity of broadcasting services.