By Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, Director General, COAI
“COAI welcomes the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, tabled in the Parliament today. The Bill introduced by our progressive Telecom Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Ji, includes focus on creating robust telecom networks through a well-defined Chapter on Right of Way (RoW), including granting of RoW in a non-discriminatory manner and clarifying that this network shall not be considered for the purposes of tax, levy, cess, fees or duties on that property.
The Bill prevents coercive actions like sealing/shutdowns without due permission from the Central Government. Such positive measures will help connect Indians to a robust digital network across the length and breadth of the country.
We also appreciate the clarifications and specification of penalties. The Bill brings in the proportionality and nexus with the nature of the offense and will lead to a considered and rational approach to penalties. It is a progressive step designed to increase industry confidence and increase ease of doing business.
In the Bill, ‘license’ has been replaced by ‘authorization’, wherein it has been specified that authorization would be required to provide telecommunication services. This would simplify overall regulatory landscape for telecom services.
Further, the Bill incorporates strict provisions in case of unlawful interception of messages or unauthorized access to the same, to help ensure national security.
The Bill also lays down that Internet shutdowns can be authorized only by the Central Government, which is objective and looks at ensuring continued, uninterrupted and seamless telecom connectivity to all.”