India's Broadcasting Revolution: Proposed Bill Aims to Reshape OTT Platform Regulation
India is poised for a transformative shift in the regulation of online streaming services with the proposed Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill. In a bid to adapt to the digital age, the draft law seeks to replace outdated regulations, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for a more business-friendly India. Central to the bill are Content Evaluation Committees, representing diverse social backgrounds, tasked with ensuring streaming content complies with established norms. Additionally, the creation of the Broadcast Advisory Council, comprised of sector experts, aims to monitor and advise the government on adherence to advertisement and program codes. The proposed legislation introduces stringent penalties, including warnings, fines, advisories, censures, imprisonment, or hefty fines for serious offenses, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining high content standards. The overarching focus lies on promoting self-regulation, empowering streaming platforms to monitor and re...