There are publishers of online curated content (OTTs) and digital news websites. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) will soon issue a charter spelling out the norms of proposed self-regulating bodies (SRBs) for this sector. These SRBs have been mandated under the new IT rules/laws which govern the digital media.
The digital publishers will be the members of these SRBs. Under the guidelines, 2021, a three-tier content regulation system has been proposed for streaming platforms.
SRBs will refer to the I&B ministry content on such platforms that may ‘incite commission of a cognisable offence relating to public order or circumstances under Sec 69(A) of the IT Act.’
SRBs will also see to adherence to the code of ethics by their member publisher, address grievances, and appeals and ensure compliance from their members.
After notification, OTT players have formed two SRBs – one under the aegis of Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and another under the Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF). It has decided to change its name to Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF).
Senior ministry officials are discussing with different industry bodies to make the implementation simpler.
The Ministry will issue orders to the publisher based on the recommendations of IDC or inter-departmental committee. This committee has members drawn from ministries of women and child development, home affairs, law and justice, electronics and IT, external affairs and defence. IDC meets once in 2-3 months. IDC henceforth will have domain experts too.
The IDC will have the power to issue warnings. It can also publishers to delete, modify, content, and even block matters that are covered under the IT Act.
In emergency case, the Centre can also issue interim order of blocking suo moto. It places such order with 48 hours before the IDC.
All orders to block must be placed before a review committee.
If smaller digital portal cannot afford a grievance officer, an existing senior officer can perform such functions.
A time frame of one year is proposed for implementation.