No reason to consider extension of Feb 1 deadline for new broadcasting framework: Trai

Telecom regulator Trai Thursday ruled out an extension of February 1 deadline for migration to the new regime for broadcasting and cable services and said it had assurances from service providers that work related to seeking consumer's choice of channels "is in full swing".

"It has also been brought to the attention of the authority that certain rumours and misleading information is still being circulated contending that further extension of the time period for obtaining consumer choices is under consideration. The authority reiterates that there is no reason to consider any extension in view of the significant momentum in obtaining the choices and the assurances of all the service providers," Trai said in a statement.

Outlining a host of initiatives being taken by stakeholders and the regulator itself to ensure a smooth migration to the new regime within the stipulated timelines, Trai said the work related to obtaining the choice of consumers has been progressing "quite well" and that about 40 per cent of the consumers have already exercised their options.

"The service providers have also given their assurances that work relating to seeking the options of the subscribers is in full swing and that they will take all the steps to obtain options of all their subscribers by January 31, 2019," the regulator's statement said.

Taking note of some rumours and misleading information being circulated on a possible extension of deadline, Trai said, "There is no reason to consider any extension in view of the significant momentum in obtaining the choices and the assurances of all the service providers."