The draft Broadcasting Bill 2024 has introduced sweeping changes to India’s media landscape. While it aims to modernise regulations, it has also raised serious concerns about free speech, the regulatory burden on digital creators, and the lack of an inclusive consultation process. In light of this new development, SFLC.in is organizing a virtual Learning Call on ‘Words on Trial: State and the Fourth Estate’ scheduled for 22nd August 2024 from 5-6 PM IST.
On July 26, 2024, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, informed the Rajya Sabha that the Broadcasting Bill is still in the drafting stage and “was placed in the public domain for feedback and comments of the stakeholders, including domain experts and the general public.” However, several media reports indicated that the second draft was shared privately with stakeholders and is not available for public feedback, raising transparency issues in the consultation process.
This learning call aims to understand and appreciate the fundamental role free speech plays in a society and democratic setup. Free speech serves as a cornerstone for individual expression, allowing people to share ideas, challenge norms, and foster open dialogue.
With this learning call, we also seek to facilitate knowledge-sharing and initiate discussion amongst all stakeholders on this pertinent issue, safeguard democratic principles, and ensure that free speech is exercised responsibly and respectfully.
Meet our Speakers:
– Gautam Lahiri, Independent Journalist and President, Press Club of India
– Meghnad S, Youtuber, Activist & Journalist
– Geeta Seshu, Senior Journalist and Co-editor of Free Speech Collective
– Megha Bahl, Lawyer and Fulbright Scholar
Prasanth Sugathan, Legal Director, SFLC.in will moderate the session.
Registration link: https://form.sflc.in/sflc-in-learning-call-august/
Join us on:
Date: August 22, 2024
Time: 5-6 PM IST
The meeting link will be shared via the registered mail.
