Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster, is expected to launch its long-awaited OTT platform around mid-September, specifically on September 15, as reported by Storyboard18.com. This launch will take place amidst growing concerns raised by key players in the Indian media and entertainment industry, including the All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF).
The proposed OTT platform is likely to offer free access for its first year, as Prasar Bharati has invited private sector TV channels and other content providers to contribute to the service. The decision, however, has sparked criticism, particularly from the AIDCF, which has voiced its objections to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
AIDCF argued that the invitation to private satellite TV channels violates the government’s own uplinking and downlinking guidelines, as outlined in a letter from Prasar Bharati dated August 5, 2024. According to AIDCF, broadcasters must adhere to these regulations regardless of distribution platforms, and the move could be in breach of the guidelines established in November 2022 and amended in March 2023.
The organisation, representing companies such as DEN Network, Hathway, and Siti Networks, further accused broadcasters of misinterpreting existing regulations by claiming that Prasar Bharati operates outside the purview of the TRAI regulations and the Cable TV Act.
Summary:
- Prasar Bharati’s OTT platform is likely to be launched around September 15, offering free access for the first year.
- AIDCF has raised concerns about the platform, arguing it violates the government’s uplinking and downlinking guidelines.
- The AIDCF has criticised broadcasters for misinterpreting regulations, asserting Prasar Bharati is not exempt from TRAI or the Cable TV Act.