Tata Sky, Airtel, D2h, Cable Operators May Face Blackout, Lose License Over New Cable TV Rules
TRAI is angry over really low numbers of conversion into the new Cable TV regime
Telecom Regulatory of India or TRAI has made it clear that they want action. Fast and swift.
As per fresh reports coming in, TRAI has threatened all cable operators and DTH service providers with blackout, and even cancellation of their license.
Why will this happen? And why TRAI is so angry?
TRAI To Cable/DTH Firms: Act Now
In the last 48 hours, a high-level meeting was conducted wherein TRAI officials discussed the pace at which the new Cable TV Rules are being implemented across India.
Numbers and facts were shared, and clearly, TRAI is not happy.
As per unnamed sources, TRAI has directly threatened all cable TV operators and DTH providers, also known as distribution platform operators (DPOs) that they will need to convert all their customers into the new Cable TV regime by January 31st.
If it doesn’t happen, then two things can happen:
- Blackout of all channels on their platform. This means their customers won’t be able to watch any channel.
- Cancellation of the license fees. This will be the ultimate punishment it seems.
The unnamed source said, “The regulator made it clear that DPOs failing to implement the order within the given timeline will face blackout (by broadcasters). It also said that it will suggest to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting that licences of defaulter DPOs be revoked,”
TRAI has already informed all customers that their monthly expenses will be reduced under the new plans.
Why Is TRAI So Angry On DTH/Cable Companies?
As per latest numbers coming in, only 50% of all existing customers have converted to the new Cable TV rules, which will come into force effective February 1st.
Since the actual date of implementation was December 28th, which was then postponed to January 31st, this is really low numbers.
While Dish TV has been able to convert only 35% of their customers, out of Airtel’s 14.78 million customers, only 50,000 have converted.
Tata Sky hasn’t even started this exercise, as they have filed a court case against TRAI over the new Cable TV rules.
How Are Cable/DTH Firms Creating Awareness?
As per TRAI’s recommendations, every Cable and DTH operator has set up their channel 999 for informational purpose about the new rules.
Besides, their customer care executives are calling the customers, and informing them about the changes. SMS and email campaigns are already on.
DEN Networks Chief Executive Officer (CEO) S N Sharma said, “Prepaid system for cable subscription partners, the most preferred billing option under the new tariff order, has been successfully rolled out during the quarter in select markets,”
SITI Cable has already informed their customers that January 21st is the last date, so that they are able to convert all customers into the new Cable TV regime.
Have you converted into the new Cable TV rules? Do let us know by commenting right here!
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