WHAT THE CENTRE HAS SAID IN ITS NEW AFFIDAVIT
In the fresh affidavit filed on Monday, 21 September, the Centre has built on this argument. They note that when it comes to TV broadcasters and print media, there are several eligibility, criterions and qualifying standards to be fulfilled. This includes a rigorous registration process and, when it comes to TV news, a performance guarantee and minimum net worth requirements.
The Centre claims that “web based digital media”, including digital web portals, web magazines and channels on video platforms like YouTube, are in lakhs and crores in numbers. They say there are no eligibility criteria or qualifications for this under law, and that no registration is required for these. National security considerations are also addressed by the requirement for clearance from the Home Ministry for TV channels, and other statutory authorities in…