New telecom bill likely in next 6-10 months, says Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

Communications minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday said that the new telecom bill is expected to be in place in 6-10 months. However, he emphasised that the government is not in a hurry.

"Basis consultation process, we will create final draft. That draft will then go through committee processes of Parliament. Then it has to go (to) Parliament. I see a timeline of 6-10 months but we are not in a hurry," Vaishnaw was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. He said then when asked to comment about a timeline for implementation of the final bill.

The Department of Telecommunications has set the deadline of October 20 on the draft bill.

The bill seeks to replace three laws: the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950.

However, with a view to ensuring smooth transition to the new framework and avoid any possible disruption, the bill provides for continuity of actions taken under the repealed laws.

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The draft Telecom Bill 2022 has clear focus on Protection of users and light touch regulation.

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- Ashwini Vaishnaw (@ashwinivaishnaw) 23 Sep 2022

It also provides that rules under the repealed laws would continue till such time that new rules are formulated.

What does the Bill aim to do?

- Minimum but effective regulation 

- Regulatory certainty

- Robust mechanism for Row

- Protection nof user

- Promoting innovation and employment.

Under the proposed bill, receiver will able to see the identity of the caller. This will prevent fraud.