THE CHHATTISGARH PROTECTION OF MEDIA PERSONS ACT, 2023

{
    "id": 3840,
    "slug": "the-chhattisgarh-protection-of-media-persons-act-2023",
    "title": "THE CHHATTISGARH PROTECTION OF MEDIA PERSONS ACT, 2023",
    "short_title": "The Chhattisgarh Protection Of Media Persons Act, 2023",
    "act_number": "14",
    "act_year": 2023,
    "act_type": "STATE",
    "location": "Chhattisgarh",
    "law_status": "unknown",
    "enactment_date": "2023-06-02",
    "description": "The Chhattisgarh Protection Of Media Persons Act, 2023",
    "preamble": "",
    "section_label": "Section",
    "sections": [
        {
            "number": "1",
            "title": "An ACT",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "An Act to provide for the prevention of violence against Media Persons while carrying out their duties as Media Persons and prevention of damage or loss of property of Media Persons or Media Institutions in the State of Chhattisgarh and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.\nWhereas acts of violence causing injury or danger to life of Media Persons and damage or loss to the property of Media Persons or Media Institutions which may create unrest in the State;\nAnd Whereas it has become necessary to provide for the prevention of violence against Media Persons and prevention of damage or loss of property of Media Persons or Media Institutions from such violent activities, and for the matters connected therewith or incidental thereto;\nBe it enacted by the Chhattisgarh Legislature in the Seventy-Third Year of the Republic of India, as follows :-",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 0
        },
        {
            "number": "1",
            "title": "Section 1. Short title, extent and commencement",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 1. Short title, extent and commencement",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 10
        },
        {
            "number": "1",
            "title": "Section 1(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) This bill may be called the Chhattisgarh Protection of Media persons Act, 2023.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 20
        },
        {
            "number": "1",
            "title": "Section 1(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) It shall extend to the whole of the State of Chhattisgarh.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 30
        },
        {
            "number": "1",
            "title": "Section 1(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) It shall come into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 40
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2. Definitions.",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 2. Definitions.\nIn this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,-",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 50
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) \"Committee\", means the Committee for Protection of Media persons constituted under provisions of Section 8 of this Act; Chhattisgarh Media freedom, Protection and Promotion Committee.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 60
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) \"Emergency Protection Measures\" means immediate actions, initiatives and security measures to deal with harassment, intimidation or violence against a media person, who requires Protection as per necessity before a Protection Plan can be formulated.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 70
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) \"Government\" means the Government of Chhattisgarh;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 80
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(d)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(d) \"Mass Media\" means any means of communication used regularly for purposes of dissemination of information and expression of views and opinions, including, print media such as newspapers, magazines and journals; audio-visual media, such as radio, community radio, satellite television news channels and news portals registered under any rules & regulations framed by the Government.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 90
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(e)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(e) \"Media Institution\" means any Newspaper Establishment, News Channel Establishment, News-based Electronic Media Establishment or News Station Establishment or, news portal establishments registered under any rules and regulations framed by the Government and are professionally engaged in the collection, processing and dissemination of information, views & opinion to the public as well as collection and communication of public opinion;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 100
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(f)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(f) \"Media person\" an employee or representative of a Media Establishment and includes an editor, a writer, news editor, subeditor, feature writer, copy-editor, reporter, correspondent, cartoonist, news-photographer, video journalist, translator, intern/trainee media person and news gatheres or a freelance journalist eligible to be accredited as freelance journalist under prevailing media person accreditation rules of the Government.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 110
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(g)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(g) \"News gatherer\", means every person, including a stringer or an agent, regularly involved in collecting and forwarding news or information to Media persons or Media Establishments;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 120
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(h)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(h) \"Accredited Journalist\" means a media person who is accredited by the State Government under prevailing accreditation rules with a purpose to facilitate the collection of news / information.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 130
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(i)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(i) \"Media Person Who Requires Protection\" means any Registered Media person facing threats of harassment, intimidation or violence while discharging his proffessional duties and his technical support staff, drivers, interpreters, Outside Broadcasting Van operators and all other persons facing threats of harassment, intimidation or violence by act of a person on account of their connection with the Registered Media person;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 140
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(j)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(j) \"Protection Plan\" means a plan formulated by the committee for protection of the mediaperson;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 150
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(k)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(k) \"Protection Measures\" means actions, initiatives and security measures aimed at dealing with threats of violence, intimidation or harassment to a Media Person Who Requires Protection;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 160
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(l)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) \"Prescribed\" means prescribed by rules made under this Act;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 170
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(m)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(m) Harassment Harassment means any action, physical or verbal, against a media person discharging his professional duties, that may cause physical or mental distress to him, which, hinders or obstructs him, from performing his professional duties.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 180
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(n)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(n) Intimidation As defined in the Indian Penal Code.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 190
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(o)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(o) Violence Violence means physical harm or attempted physical harm to media persons or their property as a consequence of discharging their professional duties.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 200
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(p)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(p) \"Public Servant\" shall have the same meaning as defined in Section 21 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860;",
            "footnote": "45 of 1860",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 210
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(q)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(q) \"Register of Media persons\" and \"register\" means a register maintained in terms of Section 3 of this Act;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 220
        },
        {
            "number": "2",
            "title": "Section 2(r)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(r) \"Registered Media person\" and \"registered as a Media person\" means every person registered under Section 3 of this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 230
        },
        {
            "number": "3",
            "title": "Section 3. Register of Media persons",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 3. Register of Media persons",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 240
        },
        {
            "number": "3",
            "title": "Section 3(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) Government shall maintain a Register of Media persons in the prescribed manner",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 250
        },
        {
            "number": "3",
            "title": "Section 3(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) The Register shall be a public document under Section 74 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872.",
            "footnote": "1 of 1872",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 260
        },
        {
            "number": "3",
            "title": "Section 3(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) The Register shall be published on the website in the manner prescribed for this purpose",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 270
        },
        {
            "number": "3",
            "title": "Section 3(4)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(4) Additions, deletions or alterations to the Register along with the effective date of such decision shall be reflected on the website within thirty days from the date of decision",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 280
        },
        {
            "number": "3",
            "title": "Section 3(5)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(5) Every person who is eligible under Section 4 of this Act shall be eligible for registration as a Media person.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 290
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Section 4. Eligibility for registration as a media person",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 4. Eligibility for registration as a media person\nPersons, residing and practising journalism in Chhattisgarh, and having at least one year of experience in journalism and fulfilling the below mentioned conditions shall be eligible for registration as a Mediaperson:",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 300
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Section 4(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) a person with at least six articles/news related to current affairs affiliated to or authored or co-authored on his name has been published by media institution in the preceding three months from the date of application for such registration; or",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 310
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Section 4(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) person who has received at least three payments from Media institution for compilation of news in the preceding six months; or",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 320
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Section 4(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) person who has taken photographs related to current affairs that have been published by media institution at least three times in the preceding three months; or",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 330
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Section 4(d)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(d) person accredited by the Government as a journalist; or a media person fulfilling the eligibility criteria for accreditation as journlist as per prevailing media person accreditation rules of the Government.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 340
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Section 4(e)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(e) person certified by a Media Institution as being employed by it as a Media person as defined in section 2 (j) of this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 350
        },
        {
            "number": "4",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 4",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided that no employee of government/ semi government/board/ corporation/ organisations which are wholly or partially funded by the government can claim for registration as media person on the basis of publication of their articles in newspapers or magazines.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 360
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5. Authority for the registration of Media persons",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 5. Authority for the registration of Media persons",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 370
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) The committee constituted for the protection of the media person shall act as the authority for registration of media persons.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 380
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) The Authority shall be competent to take a decision on:-",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 390
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(2)(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) all applications received for registration as a Media person,",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 400
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(2)(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) all applications for renewal of registration as a Media person, and,",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 410
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(2)(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) additions, deletions or alterations entries in the Register.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 420
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) The Authority shall meet in accordance with the prescribed rules and convene a meeting at least once every three months compulsorily.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 430
        },
        {
            "number": "5",
            "title": "Section 5(4)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(4) Registration under this Act will not confer any benefits or entitlements other than those expressly provided in this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 440
        },
        {
            "number": "6",
            "title": "Section 6. Application for registration as a Media person",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 6. Application for registration as a Media person",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 450
        },
        {
            "number": "6",
            "title": "Section 6(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) The Government shall, under rules framed under this act, prescribe the procedure for application to register as Media person, decision of the authority on the application and communication of authoritys decision to the media person.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 460
        },
        {
            "number": "6",
            "title": "Section 6(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Every media person whose application for registration has been accepted shall be given a registration number, in the manner prescribed",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 470
        },
        {
            "number": "6",
            "title": "Section 6(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) Such registration shall be valid for two years from the date of registration for accredited media persons and one year for non accredited media persons and shall be renewable for the same period.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 480
        },
        {
            "number": "6",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 6(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided that the Media person qualifies for registration under Section 4 on the date of the application for renewal",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 490
        },
        {
            "number": "6",
            "title": "Section 6(4)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(4) No media person shall have the right of automatic renewal of registration.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 500
        },
        {
            "number": "7",
            "title": "Section 7. Cancellation of registration, deletion, and alteration in the register of Media persons",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 7. Cancellation of registration, deletion, and alteration in the register of Media persons",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 510
        },
        {
            "number": "7",
            "title": "Section 7(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) The Authority shall have the power to cancel the registration of a media person and strike-off his/her name from the Register if, it comes to the conclusion, that the registration was erroneous or was done as a result of material mis-representation, suppression of facts or fraud.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 520
        },
        {
            "number": "7",
            "title": "Section 7(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Action to cancel registration and delete names from the Register may be taken suo moto or on the basis of credible information received:",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 530
        },
        {
            "number": "7",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 7(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided that no such action shall be taken without giving notice and opportunity of hearing to the concerned Media person in the manner prescribed. Registration shall be provisionally suspended till conclusion of enquiry.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 540
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8. Chhattisgarh Media Freedom, Protection and Promotion Committee",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 8. Chhattisgarh Media Freedom, Protection and Promotion Committee",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 550
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) The Government shall, within Ninety days, of the notification of this Act in the Official Gazette, constitute a Committee, for the Protection of Media persons who require protection, and, to deal with complaints of harassment, intimidation or violence, or unfair prosecution and arrests of media persons. This committee shall be known as Chhattisgarh Media freedom, Protection and Promotion Committee.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 560
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) The Committee shall comprise of:",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 570
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8(2)(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) Retired officer of Admistrative/ Police Service, and not below the rank of secretary in the Government Chairperson.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 580
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8(2)(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) Officer of Prosecution wing nominated by home department, not below the rank of joint director",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 590
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8(2)(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) A Government Servant, not below the rank of Additional Director, nominated by the Government ; member secretary",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 600
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Section 8(2)(d)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(d) Three Media persons having more than ten years of continuous experience in the field of journalism, of whom atleast one shall be a woman.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 610
        },
        {
            "number": "8",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 8(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided that, such nominated Media persons are registered under this Act;\nFurther provided that, the tenure of the Committee will be for three years and no member shall be nominated to the Committee for two consecutive terms.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 620
        },
        {
            "number": "9",
            "title": "Section 9. Pay, Honorarium, allowances and other facilities to the Committee members",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 9. Pay, Honorarium, allowances and other facilities to the Committee members\nThe emoluments, allowances/honorarium and other facilities to the committee members shall be determined by the Government.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 630
        },
        {
            "number": "10",
            "title": "Section 10. Objective and Functions of the Committee",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 10. Objective and Functions of the Committee",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 640
        },
        {
            "number": "10",
            "title": "Section 10(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) The objective of formation of the committee shall be to upkeep the freedom and maintain and improve the standard of mass media by providing protection to mediapersons_",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 650
        },
        {
            "number": "10",
            "title": "Section 10(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) The Committee may, in furtherance of its objectives, perform the following functions, namely:-",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 660
        },
        {
            "number": "10",
            "title": "Section 10(2)(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) to provide protection to the Media Persons against harrassment, intimidation or violence related with their profession.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 670
        },
        {
            "number": "10",
            "title": "Section 10(2)(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) any other responsibilities assigned by the Government from time to time.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 680
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11. General powers of the Committee",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 11. General powers of the Committee\nFor the purpose of performing its functions or holding any inquiry under this Act, the Committee shall have the same powers throughout the state as are vested with the civil court while trial of a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908), in respect of the following matters, namely:-",
            "footnote": "5 of 1908",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 690
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of persons and examining them on oath;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 700
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) Disclosure and inspection of documents;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 710
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) receiving evidence on affidavits;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 720
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11(d)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(d) requisitioning any public record or copies thereof from any court or office;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 730
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11(e)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(e) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents; and",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 740
        },
        {
            "number": "11",
            "title": "Section 11(f)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(f) any other matter, which may be prescribed.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 750
        },
        {
            "number": "12",
            "title": "Section 12. Government to provide all necessary assistance to the committee",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 12. Government to provide all necessary assistance to the committee",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 760
        },
        {
            "number": "12",
            "title": "Section 12(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) All Government authorities and persons employed by the Government shall provide with all information called for by the Committee unless the information is protected from disclosure by law.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 770
        },
        {
            "number": "12",
            "title": "Section 12(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) The Government shall provide all necessary assistance to the Committee in discharging its duties.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 780
        },
        {
            "number": "12",
            "title": "Section 12(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) The committee shall have the power to recommend emergency protection measures and protection plan to the Superitendent of Police of the district concerned who inturn will take appropriate decision as per extant provisions of prevailing Act/Rules/Regulations.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 790
        },
        {
            "number": "13",
            "title": "Section 13. Protection from unfair prosecution.",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 13. Protection from unfair prosecution.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 800
        },
        {
            "number": "13",
            "title": "Section 13(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) Where the Committee is prima facie of the view that it is necessary:",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 810
        },
        {
            "number": "13",
            "title": "Section 13(1)(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) For allegations or investigations against a mediaperson demanding protection, or,",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 820
        },
        {
            "number": "13",
            "title": "Section 13(1)(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) In relation to an ongoing investigation, inquiry or trial involving a mediaperson demanding protection; or,",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 830
        },
        {
            "number": "13",
            "title": "Section 13(1)(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) the material produced before it otherwise required;\nit shall direct the Superintendent of Police of district concerned to supervise the investigation and submit a report within 15 days.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 840
        },
        {
            "number": "13",
            "title": "Section 13(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) If the district superintendent of Police, in consultation with the district prosecution officer, is of the opinion that the case is fit for withdrawal from prosecution, it shall recommend the same to the committee which in turne shall forward its report to the State Government requesting to take necessary action for withdrawal of prosecution.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 850
        },
        {
            "number": "14",
            "title": "Section 14. Offences and penalties",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 14. Offences and penalties",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 860
        },
        {
            "number": "14",
            "title": "Section 14(1)(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) (a) Whoever, being a public servant, wilfully neglects his duties under this Act or the rules made under this Act, shall be considered to be in violation the of conduct rules governing them and shallpunishable by the State Government for misconduct after proper departmental inquiry under chhattisgarh civil services (classification, control & appeal) Rule 1967 or any other rule and may be awarded suitable punishment under the said rules after due opportunity of hearing.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 870
        },
        {
            "number": "14",
            "title": "Section 14(1)(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) If the person behind harrassment, intimidation or violence is a private individual, the Committee after examination of complaint and providing opportunity of hearing to both the parties shall be punished with the penalty which may extend to twenty five thousand Rupees which shall be recoverable as an arrear of land revenue;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 880
        },
        {
            "number": "14",
            "title": "Section 14(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Whoever prevents or obstructs, actively or in any way, the registration of a person entitled to registration as a Media person under this Act after providing opportunity of hearing to both the parties shall be punished by the committee with penalty which may extend to Twenty Five thousand rupees which shall be recoverable as an arrear of land revenue",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 890
        },
        {
            "number": "14",
            "title": "Section 14(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (1) and (2), no punishment shall be made against any member of the Authority under this Section for anything done or purported to be done by them in the discharge of his official duties;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 900
        },
        {
            "number": "14",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 14(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided, nothing contained in this section shall render any person liable to punishment if he proves that the misconduct was committed with out his knowledge or was done inadvertently",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 910
        },
        {
            "number": "15",
            "title": "Section 15. Offences by companies",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 15. Offences by companies",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 920
        },
        {
            "number": "15",
            "title": "Section 15(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) If the person behind harrassment, intimidation or violence is a company the Committee after examination of complaint and providing opportunity of hearing to both the parties shall be punished with the penalty which may extend to ten thousand Rupees.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 930
        },
        {
            "number": "15",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 15(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided that, nothing contained in this section shall render any person liable to punishment, if he proves that the offence was committed without his knowledge or that he had exercised all due diligence to prevent the commission of such offence:\nProvided further that, where a person is nominated as a Director of a company by virtue of his holding any office or employment in the Central Government or State Government or a financial corporation owned or controlled by the Central Government or the State Government, as the case may be, he shall not be liable for punishment under this Section.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 940
        },
        {
            "number": "15",
            "title": "Section 15(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (1), where any misconduct under this Act has been committed by a company and it is proved that the misconduct has been committed with the consent or connivance of or is attributable to any neglect on the part of any director, manager, secretary or other officer of the company, such director, manager, secretary or other officer shall also be deemed to be guilty of that misconduct and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 950
        },
        {
            "number": "15",
            "title": "Explanation to Section 15",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Explanation.-For the purposes of this section, (a) \"Company\" means any corporate body and includes a firm or other association of individuals; and (b) \"Director\", in relation to a firm, means a partner in the firm.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 960
        },
        {
            "number": "15",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 15",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided further that, for any complaint being heard by the committee, and if, for the same complaint, any First Information Report is registered under relevant provisions of any act and taken under investigation, the committee shall not take any punitive action.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 970
        },
        {
            "number": "16",
            "title": "Section 16. Action against false complaint",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 16. Action against false complaint\nFalse information, with intent to cause public servant as any other member of the committee to use his lawful power to the injury of another person: if a registered media person misuses protection provided under this act, to give to member of committee or any public servant any information which he knows or believes to be false, intending thereby to cause, or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby cause, such member of committee or public servant",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 980
        },
        {
            "number": "16",
            "title": "Section 16(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) to do or omit anything which such member of committee or public servant ought not to do or omit if the true state of facts respecting which such information is given were known by him, or",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 990
        },
        {
            "number": "16",
            "title": "Section 16(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) to use the lawful power of such member of committee or public servant to the injury or annoyance of any person, Committee on investigating the complaint finds it false, such media person shall be punished by Commitee by cancellation of registration for first time and for second time with fine which may extend to ten thousand rupees",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1000
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Section 17. Miscellaneous",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 17. Miscellaneous",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1010
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Section 17(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) Media persons shall be nominated to the Committee from the registered Media persons by the state Government",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1020
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Section 17(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Persons nominated under this Act shall be removed by the Government on the basis of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1030
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Section 17(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) All Bodies constituted under this Act shall endeavour to take all decisions unanimously:",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1040
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Proviso to Section 17(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Provided that, where bodies constituted under this Act are unable to reach unanimity, decisions shall be taken by the majority.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1050
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Section 17(4)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(4) Where potential conflict-of-interest arises in a persons discharge of obligations under this Act, he shall inform the chairperson, convener or member secretary of the body concerned and take no further part in the decision in question. All the decisions taken by the committee will be null and void if any incidence of such nature comes to knowledge of the committee or the Government",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1060
        },
        {
            "number": "17",
            "title": "Section 17(5)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(5) The Government shall maintain a website which will contain information regarding registered media persons, applications received for registration and decision taken, complaints received, action taken on complaint and decision of the committee etc.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1070
        },
        {
            "number": "18",
            "title": "Section 18. Act not in derogation of any other law",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 18. Act not in derogation of any other law\nThe provisions of this Act shall be in addition to and not in contravention of the provisions of any other law, rule, regulation, policy decision, instruction, circular or office memorandum operating for the benefit of Media persons or providing better standards for the protection of Media persons than provided under this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1080
        },
        {
            "number": "19",
            "title": "Section 19. Monitoring of the implementation of this Act",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 19. Monitoring of the implementation of this Act\nThe Government shall monitor the implementation of this Act and shall gather and maintain data on complaints made, information received, and actions taken under this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1090
        },
        {
            "number": "20",
            "title": "Section 20. Protection of action taken in good faith",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 20. Protection of action taken in good faith\nNo suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie against the Government or any officer or authority of the Government or any other person for anything which is in good faith done or intended to be done under this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1100
        },
        {
            "number": "21",
            "title": "Section 21. Appeal against penalties and action of committee",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 21. Appeal against penalties and action of committee\nAppeal against penalties and any other action of the committee shall be made to the prescribed authority designated by the Government for this purpose.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1110
        },
        {
            "number": "22",
            "title": "Section 22. Power to remove difficulties",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 22. Power to remove difficulties",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1120
        },
        {
            "number": "22",
            "title": "Section 22(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the provisions of this Act, the Government may, by order published in the Official Gazette, make such provisions, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, as may appear to be necessary for removing the difficulty. Provided that no such order shall be made under this section after expiry of three years from the commencement of this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1130
        },
        {
            "number": "22",
            "title": "Section 22(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Every such order made under this section shall be tabled before the legislative assembly.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1140
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23. Power to make rules",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "Section 23. Power to make rules",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1150
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(1)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(1) The Government may, within six months from the enactment of the Act, by notification in the Official Gazette, prescribe Rules for enforcing the provisions of this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1160
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such Rules may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely,-",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1170
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(a)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(a) Nomination Process of committee members;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1180
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(b)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(b) Form for Registration as a Media person;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1190
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(c)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(c) Form of Register of Mediaperson and details to be stipulated;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1200
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(d)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(d) Manner of communication of the decision to accept or reject applications for registration;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1210
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(e)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(e) Form of notice before cancelling registration of membership;",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1220
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(f)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(f) Guidelines for the formulation of Protection Plan by the committee, with standard operating procedures for protection measures and/or emergency protection measures.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1230
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(g)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(g) Appilication format for registering complaint from media person.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1240
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(h)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(h) Process and format for accepting, rejecting or resolving the complaint from media person.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1250
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(i)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(i) Process and Procedure for conducting enquiry.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1260
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(2)(j)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(j) Any other matter necessary for the proper enforcement of this Act.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1270
        },
        {
            "number": "23",
            "title": "Section 23(3)",
            "chapter": null,
            "content": "(3) Rules framed under this act shall be tabled before the legislative assembly not later than 12 months from their publication in the Official Gazette.",
            "footnote": "",
            "is_definition": false,
            "sort_order": 1280
        }
    ],
    "metadata": {
        "Act ID": "202314",
        "Act Number": "14",
        "Enactment Date": "2023-06-02",
        "Act Year": "2023",
        "Short Title": "The Chhattisgarh Protection Of Media Persons Act, 2023",
        "Department": "Government of Chhattisgarh",
        "Type": "STATE",
        "Location": "Chhattisgarh"
    },
    "updated_at": "2026-09-29 21:55:17"
}