New Telecommunications Act in India Limits SIM Cards and Imposes Strict Penalties
New Delhi , June 26, 2024 ( Punjab News Online)
The Indian government has announced a significant update to the Telecommunications Act, 2023, which will come into effect on June 26, 2024. This new regulation aims to streamline telecommunications services and enhance security measures.
Under the new rule, an individual in India will no longer be able to own more than nine SIM cards. Special provisions apply to residents of Jammu and Kashmir and the northeastern states, where the limit is set to six SIM cards per person.
Key Provisions of the New Telecom Law:
- Maximum SIM Card Limit: Indians can now have a maximum of nine SIM cards.
- Penalties for Excess SIM Cards: Possession of more than nine SIM cards will result in a fine ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakhs.
- Penalties for Fake SIMs: A hefty fine of ₹50 lakhs and/or up to three years of imprisonment for owning fake SIM cards.
- Emergency Provisions: The government can suspend network or telecom services during emergencies.
- Control Over Emergency Messages: Authorities can restrict the dissemination of messages during critical times.
- Promotional Messages: Companies must obtain customer consent before sending promotional messages.
- Revocation of Old Telecom Laws: Previous telecommunications regulations will be nullified.
- Simplified Licensing: The process for obtaining telecom licenses will be made easier.
This act is part of the government’s broader efforts to curb fraudulent activities and ensure a more secure telecommunications environment in the country. The Ministry of Communications has highlighted the need for these changes to keep up with the evolving technological landscape and to safeguard citizens against misuse of telecommunication services.
