The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) on May 26, 2025, issued a consolidated summary of criminal provisions prescribing fines and/or imprisonment under key legislations administered by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), namely:
- Indian Telegraph Act, 1885
- Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933
- Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997
- Telecommunications Act, 2023
It enumerates specific sections that deal with unauthorised establishment or use of telegraphs and telecommunication networks, breach of license conditions, interference with telecom infrastructure, tampering with equipment or identifiers, misconduct by telegraph officers, and violations of directions or judicial orders.
The Telecommunications Act, 2023 introduces a modernized and stringent penal regime with higher fines (up to ₹2 crore) and clear classification of offences as cognizable and non-bailable, unlike the older statutes. Upon commencement of Section 60 of the 2023 Act, the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 will stand repealed, thereby consolidating penal provisions under a single comprehensive framework.
This compilation serves as a reference for enforcement authorities, legal professionals, and telecom licensees to understand the scope and gravity of telecom-related offences under Indian law.
