News Broadcasting
HC raps government on CAS delay; next hearing 5 July
NEW DELHI: The government today got some reprieve and the stick on the issue of CAS from the Delhi High Court.
While fixing 5 July as the next date for hearing in a case pertaining to implementation of CAS in three cities, the court questioned the government’s rationale for seeking 265 days for rollout of addressability.
On 10 March, the Delhi High Court had directed the government through the information and broadcasting ministry to implement CAS in four weeks.
The order had come on a petition filed by some MSOs, including Hathway and INCablenet.
A few days after the 30-day deadline got over in April, the government and sector regulator had filed an appeal in the court seeking more time to facilitate rollout of CAS.
The government’s contention was that a consensus needed to be evolved for implementing CAS for which eight to nine months time was needed.
However, the court today reiterated that it would like to see the rollout happen during this calendar year and directed the government to deposit a fine of Rs 100,000.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
