On Wednesday, Lok Sabha approved the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, as a Money Bill, introduced by Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The bill aims to amend and consolidate laws related to the development, expansion, and operation of telecommunication services and networks, spectrum assignment, and related matters. It seeks to replace three existing legislations: the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires Act, 1950. Notable provisions include the direct allocation of satellite spectrum, prohibition of using untrusted devices by companies, mandatory biometric identification for SIM card issuance, and a shift from the licensing regime to authorization for telecom services, networks, and equipment. The bill also introduces punitive consequences for damaging telecom infrastructure, benefiting satellite communication players like OneWeb, Jio Satellite, and Starlink.
Industry players and experts praised the bill, with Vodafone Idea commending the punitive measures for infrastructure damage and COAI appreciating provisions preventing coercive actions without central government permission. However, civil rights organizations criticized the bill, expressing concerns about potential mass surveillance.
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