Question : LAW RELATING TO INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER

(a) whether the Government proposes to make the laws relating to the Internet Service Providers more stringent in respect of third party contents;

(b) if so, whether it is being taken on the report of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communication & Information Technology;

(c) if so, whether the Government has received any request or object`s from Service Providers of Internet for dropping of any such amendment making service providers for any unlawful exchange of information by individuals or organisations; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD)

(a) and (b): Government had introduced a Bill on 15.12.2006 in Lok Sabha to amend Information Technology Act, 2000. The Bill, inter alia proposes to insert a provision for exemption of intermediaries from liabilities in certain circumstances, subject to stipulated conditions and observation of such other guidelines as may be prescribed by the Government. The Bill was referred to Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology. The Committee has made recommendations on the said provisions in the Bill, which are being processed for further submission before the Parliament.

(c) and (d): Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has submitted their views and feedback on the recommendations of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology on the Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2006. IAMAI has elicited the support of the Government in making amendments more favourable to legitimate service providers from what they are in the present form.