NEW DELHI: The Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2002, has been listed for re-introduction in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament) today.

It was to be tabled yesterday but could not be taken up as the Rajya Sabha was adjourned because of the presidential elections.

If yesterday's listing is taken into account, this will be the third time information and broadcasting minister Sushma Swaraj is attempting to get the bill through the Upper House. The bill failed to clear the Rajya Sabha in the last session of Parliament (17 May) due to lack of time.

As per the revised schedule, Swaraj will be introducing the bill as the fourth item of today's listed business and will also move that the bill be passed.

The amendments to the Act were passed in the Lok Sabha (Lower House) on 15 May through a voice vote.

As far as the bill's passage is concerned though, it may still fail to get the nod from the Elders as there are indications that the issue of security in Jammu & Kashmir may come up for discussion, according to government sources. The issue has taken centrestage again after last Saturday’s terrorist massacre in Jammu that claimed the lives of at least 28 people.

The sources however, said the CAS issue will continue to be listed every day till it is passed. "The okay may come through sometime this week," a senior I&B ministry official told indiantelevision on Tuesday in the forenoon, adding, "Unless some members (of the Rajya Sabha) insist on a lengthy debate on the issue."

Read earlier report:
Presidential polls prevent CATV Act CAS amendment's fresh introduction in Rajya Sabha




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