Digital Media Will Be Governed By Ministry of Information and Broadcasting: Reports

The government has started the process to propose changes to the Registration of Press and Periodicals Bill, 2019. Media reports state that the new bill will include a new registration system for newspapers that will cover the digital news media sector.

According to one of the sources, "If the bill is passed, digital news websites functioning in India would become equal to newspapers, and they will have to register themselves with the Press Registrar General, equivalent to the current Registrar of Newspapers in India."

Digital news sites could face action for "violations", which include canceled registration or penalty. 

Within 90 days of the law's implementation, digital news providers must submit an application for registration.

In India, there will be rules for the first time regarding digital media. Digital media will be governed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting if the law is approved.

The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, which governed newspapers and printing presses in India during the British era, will be replaced by the Registration of Press and Periodicals Bill.