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TRAI directs Internet Service Providers to obtain explicit consent before providing chargeable Value Added Services
The Authority today issued a Direction making it mandatory for Internet Service Providers to obtain explicit consent of the subscribers before making Value Added Services chargeable. TRAI had earlier issued similar Direction to the Fixed and Mobile operators.
2. The Direction is in the context of instances that have come to notice where Internet Service Providers charge the subscribers for Value Additions without obtaining their explicit consent. A prominent Internet Service Provider had recently provided Value Additions in the form of ‘unlimited access’ at a monthly fee. The service was activated to all dial-up customers with the condition that unless the customer calls the Customer Care of the operator on a specific number and un-subscribes the service, the monthly charge gets automatically applicable.
3. In the cases as cited above, the onus of declining the chargeable service is put on the customer. There could be a possibility that in case the customer fails to un-subscribe for the service due to any reason, he starts getting charged without his concurrence. This amounts to offering and charging for a service without the explicit consent of the customer. With this Direction, the Authority intends to put an end to such practices.
( M. KANNAN )
ADVISOR (ECO.)
People
Steven Davis joins Sony Pictures Networks India as Content Licensing Manager
Seasoned media professional brings over 14 years of syndication and distribution expertise.
MUMBAI: Steven Davis has found a new reel home and this time, it’s at one of India’s biggest entertainment powerhouses. Steven Davis has joined Sony Pictures Networks India as manager of content licensing, marking a significant new chapter in his career within the media and entertainment industry. With more than 14 years of rich experience in content licensing, syndication, distribution, and sales, Davis brings deep operational knowledge and a proven track record of driving revenue through strategic content partnerships.
Prior to this move, he served as senior manager for content licensing & syndication at Rajshri Entertainment for over five years (November 2020 – March 2026), where he orchestrated the full cycle of content licensing and distribution. He has also held leadership roles at Veon Events, Bizzy Baby Media, Yoboho New Media, Vuclip, Saregama India, and Hungama.
In his new role at Sony Pictures Networks India, Davis will contribute to expanding the company’s diverse content portfolio and strengthening its reach across global markets.
The appointment adds valuable expertise to Sony Pictures Networks India’s content licensing team as the company continues to grow its presence in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.
From managing syndication at Rajshri to now licensing content at Sony, Steven Davis clearly knows how to keep the stories flowing. His move signals yet another seasoned hand joining the ranks to help some of India’s biggest shows and films find new audiences worldwide.
