COAI’s campaign receives support of 4-mn subscribers

The Cellular Operators Association of India's (COAI) campaign for net neutrality has received  from 4 million subscribers. The campaign aims make internet-based communication services like WhatsApp and Skype subject to norms similar to those applying to mobile phone operators.

"Sabka Internet, Sab ka Vikas - the campaign for net neutrality, net equality and consumer choice, has received support from over 40 lakh Indian mobile users in under a week," COAI said in a statement yesterday. "The entire mobile number database of supporters is auditable on request by the appropriate agency," it added.
 
Launched last week, Sabka Internet, Sab ka Vikas, a campaign seeking accessibility and affordability of the internet for every Indian, is focused on creating a level playing field with net-based services like Skype and WhatApp.

According to the industry body if the telecom operators were not offered a level playing field with net-based services, then their businesses would be viable only if data prices were hiked six times the current rate.

The campaign comes as a debate rages over net neutrality and allegations that telecom operators were violating the concept of free internet access by extending preferential treatment to a select few.

The association includes major players like Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India, Idea Cellular and Reliance Jio Infocomm.

In a statement issued on yesterday, COAI director-general Rajan Mathews said, "The campaign championed the cause of customers choosing what they would like to access in the web space, benefit ting from affordable Internet packages and with the same rules being applicable to services as well."

Meanwhile, telecom regulator TRAI has launched a  consultation process over whether to regulate mobile apps delivered over mobile phone networks.

The regulator received over a million responses on the subject by 24 April, which was the deadline for stakeholders to send in their suggestions.

Counter comments would be accepted until 8 May after which the regulator would hold a consultation process and submit its recommendations to the government.