Unpacking The Battle Over OTT Platforms In Telecom Regulation

In a recent legal showdown, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) found itself at the center of a debate involving Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, broadcasting, and cable services.¹ The case, brought before the tribunal, raises questions about the jurisdiction and regulatory framework for these emerging digital media platforms.

Background

All India Digital Cable Federation ("the Petitioner"), argued that Star India Pvt Ltd ("the Respondent") was in violation of Regulation 3(2) of The Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulation, 2017 (hereinafter referred to as "the Regulations, 2017"). The core of the Petitioner's argument was that the Respondent, while charging the Petitioner for their Star Sports channel, was simultaneously allowing users to access the same content for free through its OTT platform.