TRAI FAST consultation splits Times, ABP from TV Today, Network18
News broadcasters in India are divided over the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (TRAI) proposed regulations for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) and Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) services. Times Network and ABP Network seek safeguards against perceived competitive imbalances and global tech dominance, advocating for regulatory oversight. Conversely, TV Today Network and Network18 oppose regulation, arguing it exceeds TRAI's jurisdiction and could inhibit digital innovation.
Key Takeaways
- Times Network says FAST channels are replicating cable, DTH and IPTV distribution without the same licensing, tariff and quality obligations.
- ABP Network wants a “light-touch but proactive” framework and calls for transparency in advertising metrics and “inventory sovereignty.”
- TV Today Network argues FAST and ALTD are internet-based OTT applications, not “telecommunication services” under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 or the TRAI Act.
- Network18 says Parliament excluded OTT services from the final Telecommunications Act and calls telecom-style authorization “ultra vires.”
- TRAI’s consultation paper was issued on April 6 and covers Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) and Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST).
Why It Matters
TRAI’s consultation could determine whether FAST and ALTD stay under legacy-style oversight or remain closer to OTT rules, with immediate implications for broadcaster economics, ad inventory control, and connected-TV distribution. The split between Times Network and ABP on one side, and TV Today Network and Network18 on the other, shows the industry has no consensus on where carriage ends and content regulation begins. Watch what TRAI does after the April 6 consultation, especially whether it narrows the framework to transparency and grievance handling or pushes toward authorization-style rules.
Read full article at exchange4media.com
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