It is now possible for you to obtain up to nine SIM cards. Obtaining SIM cards through dishonest means can also result in a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh and three years in prison. The new ‘Telecommunication Act 2023’ has gone into effect nationwide today, June 26, 2024.
In a significant move aimed at tightening telecom regulations and enhancing national security, the government has enacted the ‘Telecommunication Act 2023.’ The new legislation establishes stringent rules regarding the acquisition of SIM cards, limiting the maximum number one individual can possess. Under the new rules, no Indian will be permitted to obtain more than nine SIM cards. This restriction is even tighter in specific regions; residents of North-East states and Jammu and Kashmir will only be eligible for a maximum of six SIM cards.
The new act has introduced severe penalties for contravening these limits. Anyone caught obtaining additional SIM cards over the prescribed limit will face a fine of Rs 50,000 for the first offense, and Rs 2 lakh for each subsequent violation. Furthermore, obtaining SIM cards through fraudulent means can lead to more stringent penalties, including a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh and a potential prison sentence of up to three years.
The government has also empowered itself with substantial control over telecommunication services. The Telecommunication Act 2023 allows the government to assume control of, oversee, or halt any telecom service or network in order to maintain national security. In times of conflict, the government will also have the ability to intercept communications on the telecom network.
To protect consumer rights, the new law mandates that telecom providers must obtain customer consent before sending marketing messages or advertisements for products and services. Additionally, telecom providers are required to set up an online system where customers can file complaints. This provision aims to make it easier for consumers to address issues related to telecom services and seek redressal.
The new legislation comprises 62 sections in total, but as of its enactment, only 39 provisions have been put into effect. The Telecom Bill saw its approval from the Rajya Sabha on December 21 and from the Lok Sabha on December 20 of the previous year.
. Following these approvals, President Draupadi Murmu gave her assent, allowing it to become law.
This historic legislation replaces the Indian Telegraph Act, which has governed the telecom industry for the past 138 years. Additionally, it supersedes the 1933 Indian Wireless Telegraph Act and modifies the TRAI Act of 1997. These changes mark a significant shift in the regulatory framework governing India’s telecommunication sector.
A noteworthy provision in the new act is for the administrative distribution of telecom spectrum, which will expedite the introduction of services. This change is expected to benefit foreign businesses such as Starlink, owned by American entrepreneur Elon Musk. Although this may result in some losses for domestic giants like Jio, it opens up the market for heightened competition and technological advancements.
The passing of this act has sparked varied reactions from industry stakeholders. Proponents argue that the increased regulation is necessary for maintaining national security and consumer rights. They point to the rising incidents of telecom fraud and misuse as factors that necessitate stricter controls. Moreover, the provision allowing the government to intercept communications in times of conflict is seen as a prudent measure for national defense.
Critics, however, express concerns about the potential for excessive government control and the impact on privacy. They argue that while national security is paramount, there needs to be a balance to ensure that consumer privacy rights are not unduly infringed upon. Moreover, there are questions about how effectively the new regulations will be enforced, and whether telecom providers have the means to implement the necessary changes quickly.
In summary, the ‘Telecommunication Act 2023’ introduces rigorous new regulations aimed at tightening control over telecom services, enhancing national security, and protecting consumer rights. With limitations on the number of SIM cards individuals can possess and significant penalties for non-compliance, the act marks a substantial shift in the landscape of India’s telecommunication industry. As only 39 of the 62 provisions have come into effect thus far, further developments and adjustments are anticipated as the full scope of the legislation is rolled out.
