New twist to net neutrality row

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, April 27

The debate over net neutrality has got a twist with the telecom operators proposing a licensing regime for over-the-top (OTT) players like WhatsApp and Skype.

While the telecom operators, who have been feeling the pinch in their revenues due to the OTT players, especially after WhatsApp offered free calling facility through the application, say the licensing regime is important for them to have a level-playing field — a view being opposed by internet firms and associations.

The suggestion from telcos and their respective associations comes after all stakeholders submitted their comments on TRAI's consultation paper on Net Neutrality.

The TRAI has released the name and email IDs of over one million people who gave their comments on the consultation paper.

The telecom operators said they should be allowed to offer services based on mutual agreements with the OTT players.

The GSM operators’ umbrella body, COAI, said it is important that the regulatory framework adopted is pro-choice, pro-poor, pro-innovation and hence pro-India.

"There is a pressing need to find a fair regulatory and commercial solution especially for VOIP telephony services, which if not addressed could endanger the entire Digital India programme of the Government," Vodafone India said.

However, Nasscom said the Information Technology Act is mandated to ensure this and believe there is no need for any additional regulations for content and services.

Airtel said, at present, telecom service providers and OTT communication service providers offer the same communication services such as voice.

"While TSPs are subject to a number of regulatory and licensing requirements, such as payment of licence fee, taxes, security conditions, among others, OTT communication service providers have no such obligations," Airtel said.

Idea said there should be "Same Service, Same Rules" so that all stakeholders are bound to offer same services under the same regulations.