The quote touches on the idea that attempting to screen or regulate content before it appears online would be impractical and counterintuitive. It suggests that the sheer volume and speed at which information circulates on the internet make pre-screening an impossible task, as any attempt to do so would disrupt the natural flow of information.
At a deeper level, the quote critiques efforts to control or censor content in digital spaces by highlighting the inherent challenges such endeavors face. The rapid pace and decentralized nature of the internet make it nearly impossible for any entity to monitor every piece of data before it becomes publicly available. This implies that once content is created and shared, attempts at regulation often come too late. Furthermore, the quote suggests a broader philosophical stance on freedom of expression and information access, arguing that pre-screening runs counter to the principles of an open internet where free exchange of ideas should not be hindered by artificial barriers.
The author of this quote, Kapil Sibal, is an Indian politician who has held several ministerial positions in India's central government. He is particularly known for his roles in education and telecommunications. His views on digital regulation reflect a broader debate within the country about balancing freedom of information with concerns over content that could be harmful or misleading.