Mumbai: The government may take strict action against the unlicensed agencies issuing viewership data for TV and internet-connected platforms.

As per the government guidelines, these platforms are in violation of the policy for TRP in India which also covers the measurement of online video platforms. Recently, an agency issued a viewership report for TV news channels. As per industry experts, most of these reports are motivated and at times are even paid by channels being shown as number one.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting requires all Television Rating Agencies to register themselves and follow the policy guidelines laid down by the Ministry in respect of television ratings.

The guidelines provide for strict conditions and obligations to be compulsorily met, including ensuring that ratings are tech-neutral and capture data across multiple viewing platforms including Cable TV, DTH, Terrestrial TV and online platforms.