Govt mulls proposal for cancellation of cable operator licences

NEW DELHI: The Government is in the process of firming up its view on the recommendations by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India which include cancellation or suspension of the licence of a cable operator in case of any breach.

The government is in the process of preparing a comprehensive proposal before it can be taken to the cabinet and then to Parliament.
 
The Government in general is in agreement with the Trai report of 25 July 2008 in this regard. Trai had also made recommendations with regard to payment of tax and restructuring of cable services which will require an amendment of the Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Ac 1995. At present, the Act has no provision for cancellation of licence. 
 
But Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting CM Jatua said today that no firm date can be given for this as it requires consultations with stakeholders and other Departments and Ministries.