JioStar and Sony have opposed TRAI’s proposal to bring FAST and Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) platforms under a telecom-style regulatory framework, arguing that internet-based television services operate differently from traditional DTH and cable systems.
In their submissions to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), both companies stated that FAST and OTT platforms function on the “application layer” of the internet, while telecom operators and internet service providers operate at the “network layer.”
The broadcasters argued that OTT and FAST platforms do not establish or operate telecom infrastructure and instead use existing internet networks to distribute content through software applications. They said telecom laws are designed to regulate connectivity infrastructure and not digital content distribution services.
Both companies warned that extending telecom regulation to internet-delivered content could blur the distinction between infrastructure providers and digital content platforms. JioStar argued that such a move could eventually impact websites, gaming services, social media platforms, and video conferencing applications.
Sony also pointed to previous legal positions and TRAI submissions that recognised OTT services as falling outside telecom regulation and under the Information Technology Act.
The broadcasters further opposed proposals related to authorisation fees, pricing controls, compulsory carriage obligations, bank guarantees, and net worth requirements for FAST services, stating that such rules could hurt innovation and increase compliance burdens across India’s digital ecosystem.
They added that FAST platforms are still at an early stage in India and should be allowed to grow through market-driven conditions rather than restrictive licensing structures.
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