NEW DELHI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended that political parties, state governments and religious bodies should not be allowed to run television channels.
The information and broadcasting ministry had sought TRAI views after several state governments and political parties had sought government permission to launch TV and radio broadcasting services.
The telecom regulator, however, ruled out the entry of political parties and
state governments into broadcasting
TRAI said the existing TV channels (including the private ones) can provide “reasonable access” to recognised political parties during the run-up to elections. “The I&B ministry may seek the guidance of the Election Commission” on this matter, TRAI said. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has now taken additional charge of the I&B ministry as PR Dasmunsi is still in hospital with cardiac problems.
A TRAI spokesperson said, “it’s up to the I&B ministry now whether to accept the recommendation or not.”
West Bengal, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Delhi had sought permission of the Centre, over the years, to start TV or radio broadcasting services.
