Lok Sabha Passes Press And Registration Of Periodicals Bill, 2023

In a landmark decision, the Lok Sabha has passed the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, ushering in a new era by repealing the archaic Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867. This transformative legislation, already approved by the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session, aims to streamline and modernise the process of title allotment and registration of periodicals.

The newly enacted statute, the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, introduces a simplified and simultaneous online system for title allotment and registration. 

This significant departure from the previous eight-step process is expected to expedite the registration process, particularly benefiting small and medium publishers by eliminating the need for a physical interface.

The crucial change means that publishers, especially those in the small and medium category, will no longer be obligated to file declarations with District Magistrates or local authorities, streamlining the initiation of a publication. Additionally, printing presses will only need to provide an intimation, replacing the previous requirement for declarations.

Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Anurag Singh Thakur, presenting the Bill in the Lok Sabha, emphasised that this move reflects the government's commitment to discarding colonial-era mentalities and ushering in new laws for a "New India." The Minister underscored the government's priority of ending criminality, enhancing ease of doing business, and improving ease of living through new laws.

Thakur highlighted that the new legislation substantially decriminalises the colonial-era statute, proposing financial penalties instead of convictions for certain violations. Furthermore, a credible appellate mechanism, headed by the Chairperson of the Press Council of India, has been introduced. Stressing the ease of doing business aspect, Thakur stated that the title registration process, which could take 2-3 years, would now be completed within 60 days.

The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, a legacy of British rule, was enacted to exert control over the press and publishers with heavy fines and penalties, including imprisonment for various violations. The government, recognizing the need for contemporary laws in the age of a free press, decided to replace the archaic law with a more progressive one.

The new legislation is expected to bring about a significant paradigm shift in the media landscape, aligning with the government's commitment to media freedom. The Bill focuses on encouraging responsible and streamlined publishing practices, fostering an environment conducive to the growth of the media sector.

The simplified online mechanism, coupled with reduced criminality and a credible appellate mechanism, signifies a positive step towards promoting responsible journalism and facilitating the ease of doing business in the media sector. The enactment of The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, is a testimony to India's commitment to align its legal framework with contemporary needs and global best practices.