Common man's new problem: whatsapp calls are not even free! The government prepared a new draft

Soon you may have to pay for calling on apps like whatsapp, Skype, Zoom, Telegram, and google Duo. The Center has prepared the draft of the indian Telecommunication Bill 2022.

Soon you may have to pay for calling on apps like whatsapp, Skype, Zoom, Telegram, and google Duo. Hardening its stand against video communication and calling apps, the Center has prepared the draft indian Telecommunication Bill 2022. In the new draft, it has been proposed to bring whatsapp, Zoom, and google Duo under the purview of the telecom license. The draft of the bill is available for all on the website of the Department of Telecom. Along with this, the department has also sought the suggestions of the industry on the bill. If the bill is passed, the Department of Telecommunications will follow it.

Many new things have been included in the draft of the indian Telecommunication Bill 2022. According to this, calling and messaging apps like whatsapp, Skype, Zoom, Telegram, and google Duo will now have to be licensed. They will now need to get a license like telecom companies to operate in India. At the same time, OTT platforms have also been included in the new telecommunication bill. However, the government has proposed to exempt press messages that are intended to be published in india by accredited correspondents from the central or state governments, which can be intercepted.

According to the draft "For the provision of telecom services and telecom network, an entity shall have to obtain a license." The last date for public comments on the draft is october 20. In another important section, the draft bill, released late wednesday night, also proposes to waive off fees and fines of telecom and internet service providers.

The draft bill was put up on social media by IT minister Ashwini Vaishnav. According to the draft, there will be an exemption for press messages, however, in case of any public emergency or the interest of public safety, sovereignty, integrity or security of india, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, or any offense shall not be given to prevent provocation.

The draft bill also proposes a fee refund if an internet or telecom service provider offers to surrender the license. Further, the Center may waive, in whole or in part, any fee including entry fee, license fee, registration fee, or any other fee or charge, interest, additional fee, or penalty for any license holder or registered entity under the Telecom Rules.