Upset that even after the implementation of digitisation in Chennai, some Local Cable Operators (LCOs) and Multi System Operators (MSOs) continued to show channels in analog form, broadcasting regulator TRAI has asked those not following rules to fall in line.
In a statement issued here, TRAI expressed "serious concern over tardy implementation" of digitisation in Chennai and asked broadcasters, MSOs and LCOs to take immediate action or face consequences.
TRAI said that while Digital Addressable System (DAS) or digitisation has been successfully implemented in the Metro cities of Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata, the same is not the case in Chennai.
It has been reported that TV channels are still being transmitted or retransmitted in the analog or unencrypted mode in the Chennai Metropolitan Area by some MSOs and LCOs, TRAI said.
It asked broadcasters to provide signal of their TV channels to those MSOs who are providing cable services through DAS. It asked MSOs to ensure that only digital and encrypted signals are transmitted on their networks.
"The Authority would closely monitor the progress in this regard and would take all possible actions, including penal action as per the TRAI Act, to ensure compliance of its regulatory framework," it said. TRAI also asked cable TV subscribers to ensure that they get digital signals for their TV connection.
