Free Speech v. Regulation: New Rules For Broadcasters

After setting up a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital media, the Central Government has now incorporated a similar structure for broadcasters and advertisers. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting ("IB Ministry") has amended the grievance redressal mechanism through the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules 2021 ("New CN Rules"). This article analyses the New CN Rules and its impact.

Overview

The three-tier grievance redressal model under the New CN Rules is elaborated below -

Level I – Self-regulation by broadcasters

The New CN Rules require each broadcaster to appoint a grievance officer. The contact details of the grievance officer and grievance redressal mechanism should be published on the website. Any person can file a complaint about content which is not in conformity with the Programme Code or Advertising Code as set out under the Cable Television Network Rules, 1994. For any complaints relating to the Programme Code,