India: Adopted Indian Telecommunications Bill 2023 including consumer protection regulation

On 21 December 2023, the Telecommunications Bill 2023, including consumer protection regulation, was adopted by the upper house of the Indian Parliament, the Rajya Sabha. The Bill aims to establish one or more online dispute resolution mechanisms for resolving disputes between users and authorised entities providing telecommunication services. The licensed entities are obliged to participate in this mechanism. Additionally, a “Do Not Disturb” register should be established to ensure that only users who have given consent receive “specified messages”, such as offers, advertisements, or promotions. The Bill will become effective on a date determined by the Central Government through an official notification in the Gazette. The government has the authority to appoint different dates for various provisions within the Bill.