TRAI favours net neutrality, says no to differential pricing

India’s regulators have dealt a major blow to Facebook's Internet.org, initiative to provide free but limited internet access. TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) has ruled in favour of Net Neutrality, putting an end to a long on-going debate.

The ruling was announced in an order called the "Prohibition of Discriminatory Tariffs for Data Services Regulation." The order states that "no service provider shall offer or charge discriminatory tariffs for data services on the basis of content."

The regulatory body said that telecom service provider may reduce tariff for accessing or providing emergency services. The regulator also warned operators that they cannot enter into any agreement based on discriminatory pricing, and also said that operators will be fined Rs. 50,000 per day ($735), capped at a maximum of Rs. 50 lakhs, ($74,000) if the ruling is violated. TRAI's new regulations will come into effect immediately

“no service provider shall enter into any arrangement, agreement or contract, by whatever name called, with any person… that has the effect of discriminatory tariffs for data services being offered or charged to the consumer on the basis of content.” said TRAI.

TRAI also said that it will keep a close watch on the implementation of the mandate by service provider and may undertake a review after two years.

Facebook responding to the ruling said in a statement, "While disappointed with the outcome, we will continue our efforts to eliminate barriers and give the unconnected an easier path to the Internet."

For those unaware, differential pricing means charging customers different prices for access to web-related service. To know more hit the source link.

Source |  Via