Rules seek to impose unreasonable burden on digital news publishers, says petitionA petition has been filed before the Bombay High Court challenging the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules for violating the fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. The Ministry notified the IT Rules on February 25, 2021. The next day, a representation was made that said the Rules are unconstitutional and ultravires the IT Act and requested a meaningful consultation be held with the stakeholders. The Rules enable exercise of judicial functions by non-judicial authorities, thereby violating the doctrine of separation of powers. Hence, it directly affects the freedom of speech and freedom of trade of digital news publishers, the plea said.

Source: The Hindu July 03, 2021 05:03 UTC