The Hindu : National : TRAI wants public debate on private terrestrial TV

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Mar 29, 2005

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TRAI wants public debate on private terrestrial TV

NEW DELHI, MARCH 28. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has sought public opinion whether terrestrial television, currently the monopoly of Doordarshan , should be privatised.

Though it had issued a consultation paper on the subject on February 25 and sought replies by March 31, it today decided to extend the last date for replies from stakeholders to April 15 "keeping in view of the importance of the issue and the need for wider participation of stakeholders in the consultation process."

An official release said the purpose of the consultation paper was to generate discussion on the appropriate policy and licensing framework for the introduction of private terrestrial television broadcast service in India. TRAI has said that given the developed status of the cable/satellite services, it is not clear whether there would be sufficient private interest.

In chapter six of the consultation paper, TRAI wanted to know if private terrestrial television should be allowed and whether it should be permitted in either analog or digital mode.

Written comments on these issues may be sent to the Secretary of TRAI.

The gist of the comments received and the full text of the consultation paper is available on the TRAI's website: http://www.trai.gov.in/.

The consultation paper says there are various advantages/reasons in favour of allowing private sector participation in terrestrial TV broadcasting in India.

Plurality of views

In the case between the Union of India and the Cricket Association of Bengal, the Supreme Court had held in February 1995 that the right of free speech and expression includes the right to receive and impart information.

For ensuring the citizens' right of free speech, it is necessary that the citizens have the benefit of plurality of views and a range of opinions on all public issues.

This cannot be provided by a medium controlled by a monopoly — whether the monopoly is of the state or any other individual, group or organisation. — UNI

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