DoT to make presentation to PMO on Communications Bill

The Department of Telecom is likely to make a presentation on the proposed Communications Convergence Bill to the Prime Minister's Office on February 15.
According to sources, DoT is working on the idea of establishing a single regulatory framework for communications, IT and broadcasting sectors.
"The presentation is to be made before Principal Secretary Nripendra Misra on February 15," said a source.
Apart from Telecom Secretary Rakesh Garg, Trai Chairman Rahul Khullar and Information and Broadcasting Secretary Bimal Julka will be present at the meeting, the source added.
A committee had been constituted to develop a conceptual framework for the Communications Convergence Bill. It was drafted in 2000 under the BJP-led NDA government, but shelved due to differences between the telecom and the I&B ministries on bringing the broadcasting sector under a single regulator.

The Bill proposes a super regulator - Communications Commission - with defined powers, procedures and functions for regulatory and licensing functions, and an Appellate Tribunal.

It seeks to replace all old and redundant legislations which include the Telegraph Act of 1885, as well as Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act 1933, Cable TV Network (Regulation) Act 1995, IT Act 2000, sources said.
The super regulator is proposed to be a six-member body with a Chairman who will have a five-year tenure.
Members will include one each from sectors like telecom, broadcasting, finance, management, accountancy and either law or consumer affairs.