TRAI sets Aug 23 deadline for submitting CAFs in Kolkata

Broadcasting regulator TRAI has set a deadline of August 23 for cable TV viewers here for filling up consumer application forms (CAFs) failing which services would be stopped.
In a statement, TRAI said subscribers in the metropolitan area of Kolkata need to submit the forms, complete in all respects, including choice of channels services in the subscriber management system by August 23.
The statement, quoting Principal Advisor N Parmeswaran, said that in a meeting of Multi System Operators (MSOs) in here today it was observed the progress in filling of the forms has been dismal.
It expressed "serious concern that even though the deadline of 23 August 2013 is approaching fast, only around 30 per cent of subscriber's details and their choices are available in the subscriber management systems of MSOs in the metropolitan area of Kolkata".

TRAI said that after digitisation of cable sector it was mandatory that MSOs transmit signals to consumers who have filled up CAF forms.
Calling the present situation unacceptable and alarming, the TRAI said that MSOs had been directed to take immediate steps to see that Consumer application forms are filled.
In case there is any lapse on the part of cable operators or MSOs to meet the deadline, penal action may be initiated by the Authority against them, TRAI said.
TRAI asked cable subscribers to submit CAFs saying that in event of failure to do by the deadline, MSOs will have no option but to switch off the signals.