Tata Sky, Sony open to negotiations on pricing deal

Two days after Tata Sky removed 32 channels of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN) and three of TV Today Network on pricing issues, the direct-to-home (DTH) operator and the broadcaster have said they are open to negotiations to offer customers the channels.

SPN's three-year contract with Tata Sky had expired on July 31, and the two since then have been negotiating on a new pricing deal.

SPN president - distribution Rajesh Kaul said after the contract got over on July 31, Tata Sky had asked for an extension, so that the negotiations on the deal could come through. However, he claimed that Tata Sky has gone ahead and switched off SPN's 22 channels unilaterally, without even discussing with the company.

"In that sense, talks have failed, that is why they have switched off (our channels)," Kaul told PTI.

"We are completely open to that (negotiations). This is our business so we are open to any kind of dialogue, any kind of discussion which can lead to a settlement," he added.

Tata Sky chief executive officer and managing director Harit Nagpal also told PTI, "We hope to positively close negotiations and get all our subscribers their desired channels as soon as possible."