TRAI is all set to kickstart the pre-consultation process on the topic of net neutrality within two to three days. The development was announced by the regulator’s Chairman RS Sharma.
To recall, the issue of net neutrality has been debated intensely in India over the past year, resulting in platforms like Facebook’s Free Basics getting shut down permanently. TRAI has already declared its stance on differential pricing for data services, a major topic under net neutrality, but is yet to announce its framework for other sections of the issue.
Areas which are yet to be resolved include the rules for VoIP calls, app-based messaging and throttling of internet speeds by service providers based on the site visited or content accessed. In related news, TRAI is currently fielding requests from Bharti Airtel and COAI regarding differential pricing for data services.
Also Read: Airtel is at it again, wants TRAI permission for net neutrality ‘friendly’ content platform
Airtel is seeking permission to provide content through CECN (closed electronic communications network), effectively taking advantage of a loophole in TRAI’s differential pricing regulation. COAI is taking things a step further, asking the body to scrap the rules altogether to allow content access though both closed and open internet.
As per a PTI report, Sharma asserted that TRAI will make a decision on the issue based on the tariff they file with the authority. As per existing rules, all network operators need to do so for any service they intend to supply to their customers.