News broadcasters move TDSAT against Trai

Chairperson of tribunal, Aftab Alam, epxresses his displeasure over Trai's move

Upset with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (Trai) decision to move a Delhi district court regarding the violation of the 12-minute ad cap rule by television broadcasters, the News Broadcasters Association (NBA) approached the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) on Thursday.

The Tribunal’s chairperson, Aftab Alam, too, expressed his displeasure over Trai’s move and asked the regulatory body’s counsel to reply within 24 hours if it would withdraw the case from the court.

TDSAT settles matters related to the telecom and broadcast industry. The chairperson had pointed out that Trai’s step to move court was drastic, as the matter fell under TDSAT jurisdiction.

At yesterday's meeting, the Trai counsel also informed those present that the Delhi District Court where the case against the defaulting broadcasters has been filed has taken cognizance of the petition. This means that if Trai does not withdraw the case, broadcasters will start receiving court summons and the matter may be settled in court.