Well placed sources told PTI that three important MSOs, Hathway, DEN and WWIL had signed their interconnect orders with broadcasters, while some others were yet to do so.
"The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India had in a recent meeting set a deadline that all Interconnect orders should be finalised by August 21. While some of the prominent organisations have met the deadline, some exceptions still remain," a senior official told PTI.
The official added that TRAI had told all Broadcasters and MSOs that in case the reference interconnect orders were not finalised within the stipulated time, it would step in and guide negotiations.
Officials said while it was expected that the remaining organizations which had not yet finalised these commercial agreements would do it soon, the telecom regulator was contemplating its action if there is unwarranted delay.
Reference Interconnection orders are the commercial agreements between Braodcasters and MSOs related to the price of various channels and also have a bearing on the price which the customer has to pay.
The I&B ministry which has set a target for complete Digitalisation of the cable sector in four metros by October 31st this year, is also very keen that MSO and Broadcasters sign these agreements to pave the way for a Digital switchover.
