NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday approved the Telecommunications Act2023, that’s what we’re aiming for overhaul and modernizing the archaic Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and related laws.
The bill, which aims to create a robust security apparatus to protect the critical mobile networks from cyberattacks and other illegal intrusions, also provides for the following: Penalty of Rs 50,000 for unwanted messages to users, increasing up to Rs 2 lakh per message for repeat offenders who also face suspension of their telecom services.
The bill, which was approved by voice vote after a brief debate, also allows the Center to take possession of a telecommunications network in the event of a public emergency or in the interest of public safety. Most opposition members did not appear in the House of Representatives after their suspension.
The bill envisages allocating spectrum to satellite communications companies through administrative means, Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said. The provisions of the bill are in line with the demand of global satellite service companies and reject the argument of domestic telecom companies Jio and Vodafone Idea.
The bill, which aims to create a robust security apparatus to protect the critical mobile networks from cyberattacks and other illegal intrusions, also provides for the following: Penalty of Rs 50,000 for unwanted messages to users, increasing up to Rs 2 lakh per message for repeat offenders who also face suspension of their telecom services.
The bill, which was approved by voice vote after a brief debate, also allows the Center to take possession of a telecommunications network in the event of a public emergency or in the interest of public safety. Most opposition members did not appear in the House of Representatives after their suspension.
The bill envisages allocating spectrum to satellite communications companies through administrative means, Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said. The provisions of the bill are in line with the demand of global satellite service companies and reject the argument of domestic telecom companies Jio and Vodafone Idea.
