Retransmission of channels on OTT: Broadcasters asked to give info to TRAI

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has asked three broadcasters – Sun TV Network, Sony Pictures Networks India, and Star India – to provide info to the TRAI on the mode of retransmission of linear channels on OTT platforms.

These broadcasters have been asked to submit the necessary information to the TRAI in a week time. The regulator had asked broadcasters to come up with a comprehensive architecture shows the use of the media for delivering linear content of their own and other streaming platforms.

The tribunal has adjourned the matter to December7. The tribunal said that it will consider the broadcasters’ plea for staying the TRAI letter on the next date of hearing.

The TRAI’s argument is that the broadcasters provide linear channels’ signals to streaming platforms in violation of the clause 5.6 of the uplinking and downlinking guidelines.

According to Clause 5.6 of the guidelines, broadcasters have to give satellite TV channel signal reception decoders only to registered MSOs, DTH operators, cable operators, IPTV Service providers, etc.

Last year, the TDSAT asked the TRAI not to take coercive steps against broadcasters for not furnishing information related to the mode of retransmission of linear channels on OTT platforms.

The broadcasters’ contend that they are not using TRAI-regulated satellites or other infrastructures. According to them, streaming is outside the purview of TRAI regulations irrespective of whether they are broadcasters or not.

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