Forum restrains cable operators from showing ads at will

Phagwara, Aug 11 (UNI) Punjab Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has restrained cable operators from frequent and prominent showing of scroll and advertisements that disturb the viewing of the main programme.

In a recent judgement, Justice (Retd) K C Gupta, along with other two members of the commission, stated that cable operators could give advertisements only after permissible intervals when the main transmission was not being shown.

However, they can not obstruct the main view of transmission by inserting scroll or running advertisement that cause irritation to the viewers.

Giving details of the Judgement, District Consumer Forum Jalandhar Member Surinder Mittal told mediapersons here today that Commission had also instructed the operators to implement the instructions of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India regarding monthly tarrifs.

To control the cable operators who are increasing tarrif frequently, TRAI has fixed the maximum tarrifs for the subscribers of cable operators and dividedm major cities and towns in four different classes.

A maximum amount of Rs 260 PM could be charged by cable operators for more than 45 Pay Channels, Rs 235 for 30 to 40 Pay Channels and minimum thirty Free-to-Air channels in A-1 and A Class cities, Rs 200 for B-1 and B-2 Class cities and Rs 185 for other towns and areas.

UNI XC-JN BP1952