Government to Control Telecom Networks During Emergencies Under New Act
PTK NEWS DESK
New Delhi : Starting June 26, the Central government will have the authority to take control of any telecommunications services or networks during emergencies, following the implementation of the Telecommunications Act 2023.
The government partially notified the Act on Friday, detailing that sections 1, 2, 10, 20, and 30, among others, will come into effect. “The Central government hereby appoints the 26th day of June 2024, as the date on which the provisions of sections 1, 2, 10 to 30, 42 to 44, 46, 47, 50 to 58, 61, and 62 of the said Act shall come into force,” stated the Gazette notification.
Under Section 20, which will be effective from June 26, the government is empowered to assume control of telecom services during public emergencies. This includes disaster management or issues of public safety. The provision allows the Central or State Government, or an authorised officer, to temporarily take over any telecommunication service or network from an authorised entity. Additionally, it ensures that messages from users or groups involved in emergency response and recovery are given priority routing.
The Act mandates that any entity wishing to establish or operate telecommunication networks, provide services, or possess radio equipment must be authorised by the government. With the new rules in place, the Universal Service Obligation Fund will be rebranded as Digital Bharat Nidhi. This fund will not only support the establishment of telecom services in rural areas but also finance research, development, and pilot projects.
Some sections of the Act, including those related to the administrative allocation of spectrum for satellite services and the adjudication mechanism, will be notified at a later date.
The Telecommunications Act 2023 will supersede existing telecommunications regulations under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, among others.
