Originally scheduled for January 27, the meeting has gained significance amid rapid transformations in the media, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer behaviour.
Although the detailed agenda of the meeting is not yet known, the review is intended to assess whether existing laws effectively address critical issues related to the media.
In 2023, the ministry floated the Broadcast Bill for public consultation. The bill sought to replace the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. Once enacted, it would have governed over-the-top (OTT) platforms, cable TV, direct-to-home (DTH), headend-in-the-sky (HITS), internet protocol television (IPTV), and radio. However, the bill was withdrawn following opposition from the media industry.
India’s media and entertainment sector is governed by a range of laws, including the Cinematograph Amendment Act, 2023; Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995; Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023, and Press Council Act, 1978, which regulate films, television broadcasting and print media, respectively.Digital media and OTT platforms are regulated under the IT Act, 2000, and IT Rules, 2021, while advertising is governed by the ministry’s advertising code, Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the guidelines of the Advertising Standards Council of India. Intellectual property rights, including copyrights, are protected under the Copyright Act.In the committee’s 38th report, dated February 9, 2023, the ministry acknowledged receipt of a proposal from the PCI to establish a unified Media Council encompassing various media platforms. However, the ministry expressed reservations, arguing that the unique nature of different media platforms makes a single regulatory framework unsuitable.
The committee, while noting the limitations of PCI advisories and the jurisdiction of self-regulatory bodies like the News Broadcasting Standards Authority (NBSA), which applies only to its members, had recommended that the ministry explore the feasibility of creating a Media Council to oversee print, electronic and digital media, equipped with statutory powers to enforce its orders where necessary.
