Question : RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR CABLE OPERATORS

(a) whether there are any general rules and regulations for Cable Operators in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether big groups who control the cable operation are allowed to use the electric post which is denied for the small cable TV operators;

(d) if so, the reasons therefore;

(e) whether the pay channels increasing their charge frequently;

(f) if so, the reasons therefore; (g) whether the Government have no control over the Pay Channels; and (h) if so, the reasons therefore?

THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING AND MINSTER OF STATE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DISINVESTMENT

( SHRI ARUN JAITLEY )

(a) to (h): A statement is Annexed.

ANNEXURE

STATEMENT REFERRRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (h) OF THE LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 7205 FOR ANSWER ON 12.5.2000

(a) & (b): The operation of cable television networks in the country are regulated under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and Cable TV Networks Rules, 1994.

(c) & (d): These matters fall within the purview of local authorities of the State Governments and the Central Government is not empowered to decide on such issues.

(e) & (f): The subscription fee charged by private TV pay channels from cable operators is a matter between private parties and Government is not involved in the transaction.

(g) & (h): Pay channels, uplinked from outside the country, when transmitted through cable television networks are required to adhere to the programme and advertisement code prescribed under the Cable television Networks Rules, 1994.