The I&B ministry today said that this new rule had been framed as the MSOs and LCOs were not providing consistent information about installation of Set Top Boxes (STBs), an aspect crucial for its drive to Digitalise the cable sector.
"While assessing the preparedness of DAS in four metros, the Ministry has come across numerous inconsistencies of data provided by the service providers, particularly MSOs, in regard to inventory position of STB and its deployment," the I&B ministry said.
"In view of this, the Ministry has decided to amend the Cable Television Network Rules, 1995 making it obligatory for every cable operator and Multi-system Operator (MSO) to provide correct and timely information to the Ministry as and when it is sought for," the ministry added.
The statement said that with insertion of this new rule, it is now mandatory for MSOs and LCOs to provide information as and when it is sought for by the Central Government or State Government or authorised officer or any agency of the Central Government.
The ministry also said that the new rule will empower the Central Government to cancel or suspend the registration of cable operators or MSO if the information sought for by it is not provided by them.
"As per sub-section (7) of section 4 of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, the Central Government may suspend or revoke the registration of cable operators or MSOs if they violate one or more of the terms and conditions of registration," the ministry statement added.
"This will ensure correct and timely submission of information by cable operators and MSOs," the I&B statement said. (More)
