Parliament passes Telecommunications Bill, to replace the British-era laws

The development, growth, and operation of telecommunication services and networks, as well as the allocation of spectrum, are all covered by laws that Parliament passed on Thursday. These laws aim to be amended and consolidated. Following a short discussion, the Rajya Sabha approved the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, which also modifies a few sections of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act. Wednesday saw its passage by the Lok Sabha. The objective of the recently proposed legislation is to nullify the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act of 1950.

Replying to the debate, Communications, Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that there is a need to create a legal and regulatory framework that focuses on a safe and secure telecommunication network that provides for digitally inclusive growth.
The bill has strict provisions in checking fraudulent issuance of SIM cards. Any violation or impersonation will entail three years of imprisonment along with fine. There is also strict provision related for crimes related to “spoofing”.
Vaishnaw said user protection is a key reform in the Bill.
The Bill provides for a simplified procedure and authorization of licencing through a single window.

The nation’s security is critically dependent on the security of its telecommunications networks, which are a major engine of economic and social development as well as the entry point to digital services. According to Vaishnaw, the Bill will improve India’s digital public infrastructure even more, and Digital Bharat Nidhi will help provide telecom services at a saturation point.