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State-run television channels and cable companies such as Arasu Cable in Tamil Nadu, may face roadblocks if the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s recommendations are adopted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
On Friday, TRAI stuck to its earlier stance that Union and State Governments and companies or entities owned or funded by them should not be allowed to enter the business of broadcasting and distribution of television channels.
In late November, the I & B Ministry had asked TRAI to give its recommendations on whether Government entities could run television channels or own distribution companies.
The regulatory body reiterated that joint ventures of the Union or State Governments and the private sector should not be allowed to run television channels or cable companies. TRAI said in case the Union Government had already given permission for Government bodies to enter cable distribution, it should provide an appropriate exit route.
Incidentally, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, had at the National Development Council meeting here on Thursday, slammed the Centre for the delay in giving Digital Addressable System (DAS) licence to Arasu Cable TV Corporation, which she said catered to the poor and middle class. The telecom and broadcasting regulator maintained that the arm’s length relationship between Prasar Bharati and the Government should be further strengthened.
The authority said: “Pending enactment of any new legislation on broadcasting, the disqualifications recommended for political bodies to enter into broadcasting and/or distribution activities should be implemented through executive decision by incorporating the disqualifications into Rules, Regulations and Guidelines as necessary.”
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