MUMBAI: Days after the news of new deadlines being set for phase III and IV of digital addressable system (DAS) was known, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has decided to straighten up the multi system operators (MSO) and local cable operators (LCOs) who are turning up their noses regarding billing in the first two phases.

TRAI has come out with a notice inviting stakeholders to give their inputs regarding penalties to be imposed on non-compliant MSOs and LCOs. It says that it has received several complaints from DAS subscribers that they weren’t getting either the bill or the receipt of payment for their TV subscription services.

Therefore, in order to protect the interest of consumers, ensure transparent business practices and promote efficiency, it is proposing to amend the regulation to incorporate provisions of levying financial disincentives on such MSOs and LCOs. TRAI is also seeking to amend the Standards of Quality and Service (digital addressable cable TV systems) Regulations 2012 (12 of  2012) dated 14 May 2012.

The regulation lays down quality of service norms to be adhered to by the service providers, providing cable TV services through DAS.

TRAI seeks comments from stakeholders on the draft regulation by 8 September to sksinghal@trai.gov.in.