The Hindu Editorial

1-December-2023

1. Broadcast regulation 3.0, commissions and omissions.

Topic: GS2 – Indian polity.

Introduction:

• Vibodh Parthasarathi, media policy professor at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, analyzes the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill released in November 2023 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).

Historical Context:

• The bill is part of a series of efforts to regulate broadcasting comprehensively, with the last attempt in 2007 and the first in 1997 during the early stages of cable and satellite broadcasting.

Positive Propositions:

• Subscriber Data Records: The bill mandates broadcasting network operators to maintain subscriber data records, subject to periodic external audits.
• Audience Measurement Methodology: It seeks to establish a methodology for audience measurement and the sale of ratings data, enhancing transparency in the cable and satellite television business.
• Private Actors in Terrestrial Broadcasting: The provision allowing private actors in terrestrial broadcasting aims to foster competition against Doordarshan, the state broadcaster

Concerns and Criticisms:

• Inclusion of OTT Content Suppliers: The bill includes Over-the-Top (OTT) content suppliers in the definition of broadcasting services, potentially conflicting with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s jurisdiction.
• Impact on News Media: The expanded definition of broadcasting raises concerns about the conditions for journalists and news outlets, particularly smaller ones not part of large television networks.
• Content Evaluation Committee: Mandating a ‘Content Evaluation Committee’ for news programming is questioned, as it may impact the autonomy and desirability of such internal oversight mechanisms.

Missing Elements:

• Ownership Issues: The bill is silent on measuring cross-media and vertical ownership, which are crucial for maintaining diversity of suppliers and viewpoints in the news marketplace.
• Independent Broadcast Regulator: Instead of creating an independent regulator, the bill proposes a ‘Broadcast Advisory Council,’ raising concerns about its capacity and autonomy.

Government Empowerment and Intrusive Mechanisms:

• Government Inspection Powers: The bill empowers the government to inspect broadcasters without prior notice and impound their equipment.
• Penalties for Violations: Violations of the Programme Code and Advertisement Code attract penalties such as modifying or deleting content, ceasing transmissions, and government intervention in “public interest,” a term left undefined.

Conclusion and Recommendations:

• The bill must address omissions, refine intrusive measures, and protect press freedom and diversity in its quest for an integrated regulatory framework.

In summary, the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill introduces positive aspects but raises significant concerns, particularly regarding its impact on press freedom, diversity, and the potential encroachment on the jurisdiction of other ministries.

2. India’s reputation as a principled power is at stake after the indictment

Topic: GS2 – International relations.

Overview of Indictment:

• The U.S. Department of Justice filed a 15-page indictment against an Indian national, alleging an assassination plot against U.S.-based Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
• The accused, Nikhil Gupta, an illicit drugs and arms dealer, communicated with a serving senior Indian government intelligence officer and two individuals in the U.S. allegedly hired to kill Mr. Pannun.

Twist in the Tale:

• The two U.S.-based men involved in the plot were working for U.S. law enforcement, indicating that American agents had been monitoring the investigation since at least May.
• The revelation raises questions about the extent of information-sharing between the U.S. and India, particularly in light of recent meetings between U.S. President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 Allegations and Diplomatic Ramifications:

• The allegations prompt concerns about the Modi government’s stance and knowledge regarding the targeting of Sikh separatists on India’s UAPA terrorist designation list.
• If authorized, it implies a significant policy shift requiring transparency; if not, it suggests incompetence or rogue officers.
• India’s reaction to Canada versus the U.S. appears inconsistent, impacting diplomatic messaging

Government’s Response:

• The government has initiated a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the U.S. allegations, indicating the seriousness of the situation.
• The outcome of the inquiry will be crucial for India’s relations with the U.S., as the White House expects full cooperation.

Impact on International Relations:

• The case will affect India’s ties with all “Five Eyes” intelligence partner countries, highlighting broader implications beyond this specific incident.
• Questions arise about the consistency and credibility of India’s reputation as a principled global power in handling such sensitive matters.

Future Considerations and Diplomacy:

• India must carefully navigate its next steps in the case to protect its reputation and address concerns raised by the U.S. and Canada.
• Addressing extradition concerns and maintaining open communication will be essential for diplomatic resolution.

In summary, the indictment has raised complex diplomatic and reputational challenges for India, requiring careful handling of its response and future actions to preserve international relationships and its standing as a responsible global actor.

3. Is the emerging global order bipolar?

Topic: GS2 – International relations.

Is the emerging global order bipolar?

• Asymmetric Bipolarity: The current global order is viewed as asymmetric bipolarity, where the U.S. remains a pre-eminent power, but China is rapidly closing in.
• Diffused World Order: Power centers are emerging beyond the U.S. and China, shaping an asymmetric, diffused world order.
• Contours Evolving: The world order is in flux, and over time, the contours of this multipolar environment may become clearer.

China’s Impact on the Global Order:

• Unprecedented Rise: China’s economic and military rise over the last four decades has been unprecedented, reshaping the international order.
• Economic Lever: China’s economic influence, coupled with single-party control, significantly impacts and redefines the global order.
• Military Power Shift: While economic strength is a major factor, military power has historically been crucial in shaping world orders. China’s rise contributes to a shift in military dynamics.

Russia’s Relationship with China:

• Shift in Alliances: Economic sanctions and geopolitical circumstances have pushed Russia closer to China, but there are underlying mistrust and a desire not to be overly dependent on a single ally.
• Diversification Strategy: Russia is exploring avenues to diversify its relationships, especially with developing economies like India, aiming to reduce dependence on China.
• Corridor Initiatives: Initiatives like the International North-South Transport Trade Corridor and the Chennai–Vladivostok Maritime Corridor aim to enhance ties with India and decrease reliance on China.

India’s Diplomatic Options:

• Complex Relations: India has multifaceted relationships with the U.S., Russia, and China, with complexities and challenges in each partnership.
• Reduced Maneuverability: Heightened competition between major powers could limit India’s maneuverability, but rigid bipolarity is unlikely due to global interdependence.
• Complex Dynamics: India’s relations with the U.S. and China are intricate, involving economic ties, geopolitical considerations, and regional dynamics.

Strategic Approach towards China:

• Long-Term Competition: Acknowledgment of China as a long-term competitor is essential, given the power asymmetry and ongoing border disputes.
• Focus on National Power: India must focus on enhancing its comprehensive national power, including economic growth, military modernization, and advancements in disruptive technologies.
• Internal Balancing: Addressing internal fault lines and fostering societal cohesion is crucial for effective internal balancing.
• External Balancing: Balancing relations with the U.S. can contribute to perpetuating China’s two-front dilemma, strategically advantageous for India.

Global Security Situation:

• Television Wars: Ongoing conflicts in Eastern Europe (Ukraine-Russia) and West Asia (Israel-Hamas) are televised, increasing global awareness.
• Political Compulsions:S. involvement in conflicts, such as supporting Ukraine and Israel, is influenced by political considerations and alliances.
• Military-Industrial Complex: The proliferation of destructive weapons globally is linked to a significant military-industrial complex, contributing to widespread violence.
• Deeper Questions: Addressing the deeper issue of the military-industrial complex’s role in perpetuating violence is crucial for tackling global security challenges.

 

Question: Examine the evolving dynamics of the global order, considering the rise of China, Russia’s strategic choices, and India’s diplomatic challenges. Assess the impact of major power competition on regional stability and India’s strategic options.

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