The turmoil with telecom operators is still not over and we have a new one already. DTH operators, including industry giants Airtel and Tata Play, have raised concerns about the absence of regulatory oversight for OTT players. They argue that while DTH operators are burdened with licensing fees, OTT platforms operate without any regulatory scrutiny, creating an uneven playing field.
DTH operators contend that the content provided by both OTT platforms and DD Free Dish is essentially the same, yet the former faces no regulatory obligations. This discrepancy, according to Airtel, encourages customer-switching, placing financial strain on DTH operators who are compelled to charge subscribers. Airtel highlights the regulatory gaps that allow unregulated players to benefit while the fully regulated DTH industry faces the risk of collapse.
Tata Play emphasizes the need for a ‘level-playing field’ and points out that while social-media platforms have faced compliance obligations under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, OTT platforms have escaped similar scrutiny. They advocate for bringing OTT platforms under the same regulatory regime as the DTH sector to ensure fair competition and pricing structures.
With pressure from the public, telecom operators and now even DTH operators, it seems very likely that OTT will see some kind of regulation in terms of licensing fees or even content. Let’s see what 2024 unfolds for OTT and even more importantly, how it impacts the end user.