Rajeev Chandrasekhar, an independent Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from Bangalore, decided to come on Reddit for Ask Me Anything (AMA) session. The discussion touched upon topics such as net neutrality, the telecom and digital industry, policy making and appealing for transparency in all sectors. He also assured to take essential inputs to the parliament to discuss with the government. Here are some of the questions and answers, we found interesting and insightful. Some of the questions and answers have been edited for brevity. Question: Why hasnt India's definition for Broadband increased? USA has it at 25Mbps, pakistan is at 10Mbps.. that is 50 times and 20 times better than us respectively. We are slowest in South Asia.. Why this disparity? Cost of the internet plans are like 50% cheaper as well in a country like pakistan. Rajeev: I think both the previous Govt and the regulator have failed in creating a framework that would accelerate investments in Internet access networks and Internet backbone networks. Telcos and ISPs have been poorly regulated on issues of customer and network quality and thats why you are frustrated with your Internet experience! Question: there are no privacy laws in India. Why so? Rajeev: Good question!! We must have it .. I tried introducing one as a Private members bill in Parliament in 2011. I think its critical given the amount of data and information about individuals that are now in the hands of govt departments and corporates. A strong privacy law that gives rights to consumers is required NOW!!! Question:…
