The Union Cabinet approved the Telecommunication Bill during its meeting on Friday.

With the cabinet’s approval, the proposed legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament next week.

The bill proposes to broaden the scope of telecommunication services by including over-the-top (OTT), Internet-based and satellite-based communication services, broadcasting, internet, and broadband services. However, social media and technology companies objected to this provision, claiming that it would result in regulation of OTT communication apps, IANS reported from New Delhi.

In September of last year, the government released a draft Telecommunications Bill 2022 for public comment.

In addition, the proposed legislation seeks to repeal the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act of 1950.

The draft bill states that spectrum may be allocated through auction, administrative processes, or any other mechanism determined by the government.

It also gives the central government the authority to block, intercept, or monitor messages or a class of messages between two or more people. Such measures may be taken if deemed necessary in the event of a public emergency or a threat to public safety.

Telecom services may also be suspended under the bill’s provisions, on such grounds.