Telecom carriers calls Trai paper on OTTs ‘progressive’

Mumbai: Telecom carriers have called the regulator’s discussion paper on regulating over-the-top (OTT) players such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal, and on selective banning of apps during instances of civil unrest a progressive step and a backing of their concerns.

Tech sector experts said that they are sceptical about any selective banning and want the government and regulator to ensure such action is not discriminatory.

Telcos have for long been demanding that communication apps be regulated as they offer similar services without the security and financial obligations attached to licensed telecom operators.

But OTT players have contended that they are already regulated under the IT Act and more rules would stifle innovation.

Experts also added that any selective banning or shutting down of OTT apps must not be unjustified as that won’t be in larger public interest.