Mumbai: Broadcasters have voiced their concerns as TN govt-owned firm Arasu Cable TV (TACTV) fails to pay Rs 500-cr dues. Numerous broadcasters including Sony, Zee, Viacom, Disney Star, and Sun TV have raised concerns regarding unpaid dues which according to sources have been outstanding for over a year.

In response to the prolonged non-payment, the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF) addressed a letter in March to Tamil Nadu's IT and Digital Services minister Palanivel Thiagarajan and TACTV's managing director, A John Louis, calling for a fair and sustainable business environment.

“Given the severity of this issue and its adverse impact on the industry, we urgently seek your esteemed intervention to expedite the clearance of TACTV's subscription dues. Resolving this matter promptly is vital for restoring confidence and stability in Tamil Nadu's broadcasting ecosystem,” the IBDF stated in the letter dated 13 March.

Sources indicated that the Tamil Nadu state government has not yet addressed the broadcasters' requests, citing TACTV's financial difficulties.

Thiagarajan was quoted as saying by the Tamil newspaper Dinamalar on 29 June that Arasu Cable owes Rs 525 crore in fees to television broadcasting companies. The Tamil Nadu Government Cable company is in a critical state. It's up to the contractors to provide the necessary support.

When asked why broadcasters haven't cut off TV channel access to TACTV, a leading broadcaster's executive mentioned fears that the state government might retaliate against their business in the region. Another executive highlighted concerns about potential copyright issues and signal piracy if they disconnected the service.

Broadcasters have the option to appeal for pending dues through the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT).

TACTV has also not complied with a 2022 Central government advisory directing Union ministries, state governments, and union territory administrations to cease involvement in broadcasting or distribution activities by 31 December 2023. This advisory aimed to prevent the politicization of broadcasting, as content could potentially promote the ruling party and influence voters.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has included similar provisions in the draft broadcasting bill, which will gain legal authority once enacted. MIB officials have discussed the issue with TACTV, but the matter remains sub judice.