After the scrapping of Planning Commission, it could well be turn for the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. The Modi government is planning a new “super regulator" for the communications sector. To be called Communications Commission, the new body could replace TRAI, sources told CNBC-TV18.
Also Read: One-time spectrum fee: DoT may seek transfer of pleas to SC
The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) may also get replaced by Communications Appellate Tribunal, sources add.
The Communications Bill seeks to replace all old and redundant legislations which include the Telegraph Act and TRAI Act. As far the constitution of the new body is concerned, the Bill proposes a 6-member regulator with one Chairman, who will have 5-year tenure. The member will include one each from sectors like telecom, broadcasting, finance, management, accountancy and either law or consumer affairs.
Moreover, the bill also seeks to replace TDSAT with a new appellate body called the Communications Appellate Tribunal, which will have 3 members and a Chairman. According to sources, this tribunal will also have the power to oversee dispute resolution.
How different it would be?
The Communication Commission will be the over arching regulator. It will retain the functions and the powers TRAI enjoys, but will also meddle with affairs of some of the other regulators such as the Censor Board, some clearances that the Ministry Of Environment gives out, the Competition Commission of India and the Department of Telecommunications.
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