Telecom Bill 2023: Lok Sabha gives assent, provides for govt control of communication network in emergency
In a significant move today, the Lok Sabha has cleared the Telecom Bill 2023, laying the foundation for some far-reaching changes and even the transformation of the sector. The bill allows the government to temporarily take control of telecom services in the interest of national security. Not just that, in a huge move away from yesteryears, it also provided a non-auction route for the allocation of satellite spectrum. Significantly, the bill also allows the Centre to take possession of a telecom network in case of any public emergency or in the interest of public safety. It also provides for stopping transmission and even intercepting of messages in case of public emergency, in the interest of the public, to prevent incitement for committing offence. "The bill will promote structural reforms in the telecom sector," said Union Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The Telecommunications Bill, 2023, as it is known officially, was passed by a voice vote after a short debate. The Telecom Bill was piloted by Vaishnaw in the House.
According to the bill, the action on its basis can be taken if certain conditions are met. “On the occurrence of any public emergency, including disaster management, or in the interest of public safety, the central government or a state government or any officer specially authorised in this behalf by the central government or a state government, if satisfied that it is necessary or expedient so to do, by notification—take temporary possession of any telecommunication service or telecommunication network from an authorised entity”.
According to the bill, the press messages of correspondents accredited to the Centre or state governments shall not be intercepted or detained unless their
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