The Parliament on Thursday passed the Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Bill 2023, marking a significant shift from the archaic Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867, which had governed the registration of the print and publishing industry in the country since 1867. For the Bill to become law, it now awaits Presidential assent.

The new legislation introduces a simplified online system for the allotment of titles and registration of periodicals, eliminating the need for any physical interface. This streamlined approach is expected to expedite the process, providing a smoother initiation for publishers, particularly benefiting small and medium publishers.

Under the new provisions, publishers are relieved from the requirement to file declarations with local authorities and undergo authentication. Additionally, printing presses are no longer obligated to furnish such declarations; a simple intimation will suffice.

To gain further insights into the possible impact of this Bill on an industry grappling with challenges, exchange4media caught up with Rakesh Sharma, the President of the Indian Newspaper Society (INS) for the term 2023-24.

Sharma serves as the Director of iTV Network and Good Morning Media India, overseeing the publication of esteemed newspapers such as Aaj Samaj, The Daily Guardian, The Sunday Guardian, India News, and Business Guardian.

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 Excerpts:

 Can you provide an overview of INS's perspective on the recently passed PRP Bill, and how it is expected to impact the newspaper industry?

We wholeheartedly welcome the PRP Bill, which is poised to significantly benefit newspaper publishers. The previous law involved multiple offices at the state and central government levels, causing delays and obstacles. The new statute is expected to streamline processes, cutting down red tape and facilitating smoother operations.

 Do you believe the online registration process will contribute to the growth of the newspaper industry with more players entering the field? How many newspapers are currently registered, and what growth do you anticipate?

Presently, there are 1.5 lakh newspapers registered in India. While I cannot provide a projected growth figure, the streamlined online registration process is anticipated to foster ease of doing business. Newspaper industry is set to grow.

 With the elimination of the District Magistrate's power in the new Bill, do you think it might compromise the quality of newspapers, allowing anyone to register and start publishing?

No, the removal of the District Magistrate and police chiefs' approval is a positive step. Their involvement was nothing but red-tapism. The new law aims to cut red tape and streamline the process. The whole procedure, which previously took over a year, is now expected to conclude in 60 days. If someone attempts to register an existing title or provides false documents, their registration will be rejected or revoked.

 The new Bill prescribes a jail term of up to six months only for extreme violations, unlike the previous law where even minor offenses lead to imprisonment. Do you see any risks in diluting this provision?

The Act of 1867, a legacy of the British Raj, imposed complete control over the press with heavy fines and penalties. We have enough safeguards to address fake news. The provision for a jail term only for extreme violations is a necessary measure to balance accountability without resorting to imprisonment for minor offenses.

 What is INS's next move, and how do you plan to educate society, especially potential publishers, about the new law?

We will thoroughly examine every provision of the law in our upcoming board meeting, discussing both its pros and cons. We are speaking to the media to convey our message to the society and potential publishers.

 You have talked about the pros of this Bill only. Are there any flaws as well?**Currently, I can only see the positive aspects of the Bill. However, during deliberation at our board meeting, some members may identify potential drawbacks. See, the rules for the law are yet to be framed, and the government will involve INS in this process. Any issues or concerns can be addressed during the rule-making phase.