I&B Ministry revokes MSO Registration of 2 Networks for non-submission of DAS related Information
Progress of DAS being closely monitored in Ministry
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has been closely monitoring the preparedness of various activities for the implementation of DAS. The success of DAS depends on timely seeding of STBs at the consumer premises. As such, availability and deployment of STBs by MSOs/LCOs are of paramount importance for the implementation of DAS. Timely availability of accurate data with regard to the seeding of STBs by MSOs is critical for the Ministry to ensure digital switch over within the timeframe as well as for taking mid-course corrections if necessary.
As part of regular monitoring of implementation of digital addressable systems in Phase-I in four metros of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, the Ministry has sought data/information in three formats from MSOs. The requisite data is essential to gauge the preparations, including plan of preparations afoot by MSOs to ensure that all the consumers on their networks are covered by the necessary technical infrastructure such as installation of Set Top Boxes in the premises of consumers so that no consumer is put to any hardship in the form of interruption in Cable TV services due to switch off of analogue signals on the date of implementation of Digital Addressable System.
M/s. Home Cable Network (P) Limited and M/s Swami Cable Network registered MSOs with the Ministry had been asked to furnish information regarding preparations for implementation of DAS and their plans for infrastructure expansion as mandated in the DAS regime. In spite of the repeated written requests by the Ministry, the information/data/details have not been furnished by both the MSOs and therefore have failed to comply with the provisions of Cable Act and Rules thereunder. The non submission of data by these MSOs is indicative of their lack of seriousness to pursue their business as per the terms and conditions of their registration. The Ministry has in the overall context of implementation of DAS taken a serious view of the non compliance of directions of the Ministry by these two MSOs and have therefore after due notice revoked their registration as MSOs.
The Ministry has been constantly monitoring the implementation of DAS and any non seriousness on the part of MSOs registered with the Ministry would evoke stern action from the Ministry.
CP/ST