News Broadcasting
Star India and Hathway to settle dispute amicably
MUMBAI: Star India and Hathway Cable & Datacom have told the Delhi High Court that they would amicably settle their disputes over payment of dues.
Following this Star has decided not to switch off signals of its group of channels to Hathway. On 7 June Star had served a one-month notice to the multi system operator (MSO) threatening to disconnect its channels if the dues were not cleared.
“We have mutually agreed to resolve the issue amicably. Meanwhile, Hathway has made part payment to us,” says a Star spokesperson.
The case, which was admitted during the court vacations, was heard today. Hathway had last month filed a petition in the Delhi High Court, challenging Star India’s claim of outstanding dues.
Sources say while Star’s claim was Rs 470 million, Hathway was maintaining that it owed just Rs 40 million.
Star had moved the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) against Hathway.
News Broadcasting
Govt extends suspension of BARC ratings for news channels by four weeks
Move aims to curb sensational coverage amid global conflict concerns
MUMBAI: India’s television news ratings freeze is set to run longer. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has extended the suspension of Television Rating Points reporting for news channels by another four weeks, following its initial order issued on 6 March.
The directive had instructed the Broadcast Audience Research Council to temporarily halt TRP data for news broadcasters for a month, or until further notice. According to media reports, the pause has now been extended by an additional four weeks, taking the suspension into a second consecutive month and signalling continued regulatory unease.
At the heart of the decision are concerns over sensational and speculative reporting by sections of the news media, particularly during coverage of the US–Iran conflict. The ministry believes such content risks amplifying public anxiety and distorting viewer perception during sensitive geopolitical developments.
Industry watchers say the extension underscores a broader push to nudge news broadcasters towards more measured and responsible reporting. Earlier signals had hinted that the suspension could be prolonged further if channels failed to dial down panic-driven narratives.
For broadcasters and advertisers alike, the absence of TRP data continues to cloud visibility on audience behaviour, even as it sharpens the spotlight on editorial conduct.
