Free Internet in India: Government Considers Bill Proposing Free Internet Access for All Citizens

Free Internet in India: The Indian government has moved forward with the consideration of a significant private member’s bill aimed at granting every citizen the right to free internet access, ensuring equitable availability across backward and remote regions of the country.

Introduced by CPI(M) member V Sivadasan in December 2023 in the Rajya Sabha, the bill has received presidential approval for consideration in the Upper House of Parliament. Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia conveyed this decision to the Rajya Sabha secretary-general, as private members’ bills involving expenditure from the exchequer require presidential permission.

Government Considers Bill Proposing Free Internet Access for All Citizens

The proposed legislation asserts that no citizen should face financial barriers hindering their access to internet facilities. It mandates that every citizen shall have the right to free internet access, with the government tasked to ensure universal connectivity. Special measures are outlined to ensure equitable access for citizens residing in disadvantaged areas.

The bill aims to expand on the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression by making internet access a fundamental right

The bill aims to expand on the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression by making internet access a fundamental right, crucial for exercising various human rights in the digital age. It proposes that the central government either directly provides internet access or fully subsidizes services offered by providers to ensure widespread availability.

Additionally, the bill suggests that the central government shall allocate funds to states as grants-in-aid to facilitate implementation of the proposed provisions.

This initiative underscores efforts to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens across the country with unrestricted access to information and communication technologies.

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