HC order on CAS enthralls cable operators

Cable operators have welcomed the High Court order on the implementation of the Conditional Access System (CAS). They are happy that the implementation will bring sophisticated technologies such as direct-to-home (DTH) and Internet Protocal Television (IPTV).

In 2003 when CAS was initially proposed, cable operators had opposed its implementattion.

Ashok Mansukhani, executive vice president, HTMT said, "Last time, cable operators felt that the multi system operators (MSOs) would drive them out of business by having directly link with broadcastors. But it did not happen. In addition, there is a regulator (TRAI) in place as well as a dispute settlement appellate which will address and settle disputes among cable operators, MSOs and broadcasters."

Jagjit Kohli, CEO, Siticable pointed out, "Cable operators protested against the implementation of CAS due to the fact that there was no clarity on revenue sharing with broadcastors and MSOs."

K Jayaraman, chief executive officer, Hathway Cable & Datacom, "With elections round the corner, cable operators were very unsure whether CAS was here to stay or it was a temporary phenomenon".

There was a constant doubt that the government would revoke it."