Digital India Bill Draft

Digital India Bill Draft

Subject: Economy

Section: National Economy

Draft Bill is being prepared, it will replace the Information Technology Act, 2000 (the present ‘Internet Law’). It is a key pillar of framework of technology regulations the which also includes the draft Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022, Indian Telecommunication Bill, 2022, and a policy for non-personal data governance

Why new law is needed:

• The IT Act, 2000 is dated as it was passed in the early days of the internet.
• Limited in scope, thus restricting the government from enacting various rules.
• Issues of user harm like cyber bullying; women & child safety; fake news; unfair trade practices.
• Need for global standard Cyber Laws.
• To ensure Open Internet.
• Regulate emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence.
• Required to achieve a $1 trillion digital economy of 2026.

Key Objectives of the Bill:

• Ensure an open and safe Internet to ensure user’s rights and reduce risks for them online.
• Accelerate the growth of technology innovation.
• ‘Safe Harbour’ provision to be re-visited.