Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 / 2024
“Sought to mandate Content Evaluation Committees (CECs) and OTT censorship. Physical copies recalled and draft withdrawn in August 2024.”
Instituted in 2023 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) to govern broadcasting, ott & digital media. Aimed at addressing core governance challenges and structural priorities of its era.
Administered under Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) through federal coordination, state-level departments, and executive oversight mechanisms.
Severe backlash from digital content creators, independent YouTube/podcasting journalists, and civil rights groups over expansive definitions of 'broadcasters'.
Pending broad stakeholder consultation / Fresh draft
Official parliamentary records, ministry gazette notifications, and statutory review committee assessments concerning Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 / 2024.
What Should Be Retained, Redesigned, or Revived?
Status: Withdrawn / Sent for Redrafting. Replacement: Pending broad stakeholder consultation / Fresh draft. Demonstrates the systemic lifecycle of public policy in India—highlighting how changes in state capacity, federal dynamics, and technological capability render legacy frameworks obsolete or require complete legislative overhaul.
Verified Administrative & Evaluation Sources
- Official Gazette of India, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB)
- Parliamentary Standing Committee Reports (2024)
- Law Commission of India & Ministry Transition Notes