Highlights of watchdog order on discriminatory data pricing

Highlights of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) order on discriminatory pricing of data, which has a bearing on services like Facebook's Free Basics and Airtel's Zero:

- No discriminatory tariffs for data services on the basis of content

- No contract that has the effect of discriminatory tariffs for data content services

- Internet has to be made available to large number of people without discrimination

- No differential charges based on source, destination, application and content

- Exception only in the case of grave emergencies

- Tariff on exceptions need to be reported to watchdog within seven days

- Fine of Rs.50,000 per day for each act of contravention with Rs.50-lakh cap

- Differential pricing disadvantages small content providers

- It creates entry barriers and and stifle innovation

- It can turn service providers into gatekeepers

- It goes against the freedom of speech, expression and media pluralism

- Ruling may be reviewed after two years or earlier

- Consultation paper evoked sizeable number of responses from individuals

- Responses also from 15 operators, 8 associations, 42 institutions