A parliamentary committee has recommended the creation of a Media Council to streamline the regulation of print, broadcast, and digital media under a single oversight body. The proposal, directed at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), seeks to improve enforcement and coordination of media laws in an evolving technological landscape.

As part of a broader restructuring effort, the committee has also suggested merging the MIB with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Department of Telecommunications. This move aims to address regulatory complexities arising from technological advancements and media convergence.

Meanwhile, the MIB is actively developing the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, which, if passed, would bring digital news platforms and streaming services under its purview. Currently, these entities fall under the IT Rules, 2021, which have faced legal scrutiny and industry pushback.

Sources indicate that the government is exploring options to expand the existing Press Council of India into a comprehensive Media Council. This new body would oversee various media formats, ensuring compliance with content standards and ethical guidelines. While intended to function independently, the government aims to retain emergency powers to block content on grounds of national security and public order.

To bolster regulatory authority, the proposed Media Council may be empowered to issue takedown notices for unlawful content and impose financial penalties for violations. Additionally, the ministry is considering the introduction of content codes and formal complaint mechanisms for digital news platforms.

Further discussions are ongoing regarding the regulation of non-news content on OTT platforms and prominent social media accounts with large followings. The government is evaluating whether to extend existing programming and advertising codes from the Cable Television Networks Act or establish platform-specific guidelines for digital content.

How will it impact free speech and content?

Authorities are also considering maintaining emergency blocking powers for non-news digital content, with an inter-departmental committee making final decisions on enforcement. Financial penalties for content violations could be applied across broadcasters, publishers, advertisers, and intermediaries, while user-generated content is expected to remain under MeitY’s jurisdiction.