Denial of sports channels flayed

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following the recent decision by Asianet Communications Ltd to cut certain sports channels such as ESPN and Star Sports from their distribution feed, the Cable TV Viewers’ Association has moved TDSAT (Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal) against the multi-system operator (MSO). The Association told a press conference here that Asianet, which almost has a monopoly over cable distribution, has used its position to the disadvantage of the customer. The petition was accepted by the court.Speaking on the occasion, Ahlad K, secretary of the Association said: “Asianet has increased its rate of their monthly subscription every year for the past three years; it was Rs 150 three years ago and now it is Rs 220. However, despite being one of the costliest services in the country, Asianet has deprived people of important channels”.Currently, Asianet does not provide Ten Sports, Ten Cricket and Ten Action channels, depriving customers of the ongoing India-West Indies cricket tournament. Similarly, Asianet had switched off a bouquet of channels under the Zee network. ‘’Asianet has already collected subscription money for a whole year from at least 60 per cent of its customers. However, the MSO has cut many channels from its feed, thus providing less than what it was paid for,” said Ahlad. According to Alhad and the Association, Asianet is trying to overcharge customers while delivering less than what it promised, in a scheme to maximise its profits. “Asianet has been inducing viewers to make payment of subscription fees in advance up to even ten years. However, after accepting the advances, the MSO conveniently switches off some of the leading channels for different durations. This way, it has been able to maximise its profits”, he said. The Association demanded that Asianet reduce it subscription rates or deliver all the channels it promised subscribers. After the case was filed with TDSAT, Asianet has agreed to pay a refund to those customers who have been denied certain channels for which they had paid.