No decision yet on having similar rules for OTTs and telcos: Official

New Delhi: The Telecommunications Bill 2023 does not seek to regulate over-the-top (OTT) players like WhatsApp and Telegram, a senior government official has clarified, allaying concerns that the broad definition of telecommunication can be interpreted to cover any internet-based communication.

The mandate of the Bill is only meant for carriers like telecom operators and internet service providers, the official said.

“Nobody should have any apprehensions. The definition has been drafted by legally trained professionals who have been given clear mandate that this is meant for carriers which fall under the Department of Telecommunications,” the official said.