The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is likely to make a presentation on the proposed Communications Convergence Bill to the Prime Minister’s Office on February 15, 2015.
DoT is working on the idea of establishing a single regulatory framework for communications and IT sectors. The bill proposes setting up Communications Commission, a super regulator which will have defined powers, procedures and functions for regulatory and licensing functions, along with an appellate tribunal role. The super regulator is proposed to be a six-member body with a Chairman who will have a five-year tenure. The commission will include one member each from sectors like telecom, broadcasting, finance, management, accountancy and either law or consumers affairs.
The bill also seeks to replace all old and redundant legislations such as the Telegraph Act of 1885, and Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act 1933, Cable TV Network (Regulation) Act 1995, and IT Act 2000.
