NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday approved the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, that aims to overhaul and modernise the archaic Indian Telegraph Act of 1885 and related legislations.
Read More: ‘Nothing To Hide’: Kejriwal Replies To ED, Says Summons Are Politically Motivated, Illegal
The bill, which looks to create a robust security apparatus to protect the critical mobile networks from cyberattacks and other illegal break-ins, also stipulates a penalty of Rs 50,000 for unsolicited messaging to users, which will go up to Rs 2 lakh per message for repeat offenders who also face the threat of suspension of their telecommunication services.
The bill, which was passed by a voice vote after a short debate also allows the Centre to take possession of a telecom network in case of any public emergency or in the interest of public safety. Most of the opposition members did not attend the House following their suspension.
The bill provides for the allocation of spectrum to satellite communications companies through the administrative method, communications minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.
The provisions of the bill, it may be mentioned, are in line with the demand of global satellite services companies and reject the argument made by domestic telecom players Jio and Vodafone Idea.
