MIB cancels registration of non-compliant cable TV operators

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced the cancellation of registration for several Multi-System Operators (MSOs) operating through digital addressable systems (DAS). This decision, outlined in an official order dated February 14, 2024, comes after repeated instances of non-compliance with regulatory obligations by the affected MSOs.

The order, which includes detailed provisions and timelines, underscores the importance of adherence to the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and its associated rules. According to the Ministry, failure to comply with these regulations has rendered the affected MSOs liable for cancellation or suspension of their registration.

Among the key findings highlighted in the order is the failure of the scheduled MSOs to conduct mandatory audits of their systems for the calendar years 2021, 2022, as required by Regulation 15(1) of the Interconnection Regulation, 2017. Additionally, these operators were found to be in violation of Rule 10A of the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, pertaining to the submission of subscriber information.

Despite prior advisories and notices urging compliance, the scheduled MSOs did not take corrective action or provide the necessary documentation to rectify their non-compliant status. This lack of response prompted the Ministry to issue a Show Cause Notice, followed by multiple opportunities for the MSOs to rectify their status.

In light of the continued non-compliance and failure to furnish requested information within the prescribed timelines, the Ministry has exercised its authority under Section 4(7) of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, to cancel the registration of the affected MSOs, effective immediately.

However, to minimize disruption for consumers, the Ministry has granted a 30-day transition period, allowing the affected MSOs to continue providing services to existing customers until March 15, 2024. During this period, the MSOs are required to inform subscribers of the impending disconnection of signals through scrolls on their channels so that they can switch to different providers. 

The affected parties may file an appeal against this order with the Secretary (Information and Broadcasting) within 30 days of the issuance of the order. Apart from cancellations, MIB has also granted registration to 106 MSOs to provide cable television services through digital addressable systems (DAS).