Cable TV operators served ultimatum

District Collector Satyendra Singh Dursawat on Saturday announced that at least 10 channels telecast in analogous mode will be blocked each week fromnext Saturday to implement the much-deferred migration to digital platform.

“We will provide a list of channels that need to be disconnected. First, 10 most popular channels will be blocked and mandatory channels like Krishi Darshan and so on will be blocked later. Those failing to implement it will be punished under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act. It is mandatory to switch over to set top boxes and if STBs are not provided to subscribers within a month, all the channels will be blocked,” he told the cable TV operators and multi-system operators (MSOs).

A scroll to be run by cable operators on the channels that would be disconnected for non-compliance, would be provided by the authorities. There were at least 150 cable TV operators in Puducherry town. Each cable TV operator should submit a declaration providing details such as the number of connections provided and set top boxes distributed.

When the operators complained about shortage of STBs and threat from rowdy elements, the District Collector asked them to file a formal complaint.

Cost factor

A cable television operator said it would be difficult to implement the new norms as the people are reluctant to purchase STBs .

“A box costs at least ₹2,000. I am not sure people would be willing to shift,” he added.