MUMBAI: The ministry of information & broadcasting (MIB) has asked MSOs to submit an affidavit that they will carry the additional channel launched by the pubcaster Doordarshan on their cable TV networks. While MIB notified another TV channel in the list of mandatory channels last year, MSOs need to extend their list including the channel filed through affidavit at the time of registration.

“M/o information and Broadcasting vide Gazette Notification S.O. 4136 (E) dated 15.11.2019 had notified another TV channel in the list of mandatory TV channels to be carried on his network by MSO/cable operator making it a total of 27 channels (25 DD Channels, Lok Sabha channel and Rajya Sabha Channel). Accordingly, the list of mandatory TV channels to be carried by MSO duly undertaken vide their affidavit deemed to be extended to the extent including the additional TV channel notified on 15/11/2019 in their list filed through affidavit at the time of MSO registration,” MIB said in a notice.

“As per Section 11 of the Cable TV Act, if any MSO does not carry mandatory channels on its network in violation of section 8 of the Act, then the authorised officer (DC/DM/SP/SDM/CP) is empowered to seize the equipment used for operation of cable TV network of the defaulters,” it added.

In respect of a fresh application, the applicant MSOs are required to submit an affidavit to the effect that all mandatory channel will be carried on their networks. The affidavit would be on stamp paper of Rs 100 which will be sworn before a public notary appointed by central or state government.