KOLKATA: Tamil Nadu-based multi-system operator (MSO) Apple Network Private Ltd. has written a complaint to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) against major pay-TV broadcasters for allegedly not complying to new tariff order 2.0 (NTO 2.0). It also claimed that broadcasters are not coming forward to execute the new RIO agreements/ amendments in accordance with NTO 2.0.

The complaint is “against the Pay Channel broadcasters but not limited to Star India, Sony Pictures Network India, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, IndiaCast Media Distribution Pvt Ltd, Discovery Communications India, Bennet Colman and Company Ltd etc. as the said broadcasters are acting arbitrary and are showing high handedness by not complying with law of land,” the MSO wrote to TRAI.

The MSO also demanded that the invoices sent by broadcasters since March until date (6 July) have to be corrected as NTO 2.0 came into effect from March. It has also mentioned that despite several petitions, the broadcasters have failed to get any interim stay on the order. It has alleged that despite repealed requests broadcasters are not uploading the amended RIO on their respective websites. 

It has added that due to the current situation LCOs have not been able to collect payment causing immense suffering to its business. But broadcasters are not offering any relief and are demanding the entire Invoice amount which is generated on the basis of MSR report.

“Therefore, in view of the above, the undersigned herein requests you to take severe coercive actions against the pay channel broadcasters for non-implementation of NTO 2.0 as on account of Covid2019, it is totally uncertain as to when the writs pending in different high courts will be taken up and until then, the broadcasters can not be permitted to illegally enrich themselves. Further, you may direct all pay channel broadcasters to enter valid RIO agreement in compliance with NTO 2.0 and accordingly revise the billing wef 1 March 2020,” it added.