To keep up with modernization, the government suggests updating telecom regulations.

According to an official document, the Department of Telecom has released a consultation paper on the revision of telecom regulations in order to simplify laws, encourage investment, and keep up with technological advancements like 5G.

The consultation paper states that the new rules won't be implemented retroactively in order to harm the relevant entity in any way. “A new law on telecommunication needs to aim at establishing an enabling future-ready framework for the development of telecommunication sector and deployment of new technologies. Such a law needs to consolidate the existing laws governing telecommunication sector, while keeping in view global best practices,” the consultation paper dated July 23 said.

The government has suggested that the new framework be written in plain and simple language to make the regulations understandable to any citizen. It is intended that the proposed law will contain sufficient provisions to guarantee regulatory certainty and encourage investment.

“This would mean continuity of licenses and authorizations under the old regime. To minimize policy disruption, such a law needs to provide for continuation of rules, guidelines, administrative orders issued under the existing regime until superseded by new rules.Furthermore, a new law needs to ensure that the terms and conditions will not be modified with retrospective effect to the detriment of the relevant entity,” the paper said.