MUMBAI: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a warning to MSOs and cable operators in Jammu and Kashmir. In a communication issued by joint secretary Vikram Sahay, it has unequivocally asked them to cease transmitting unauthorised channels on their cable TV networks and comply with the provisions of the Cable TV Regulations Act, 1995.

Sub Rule 6(6) of the Cable TV Rules specifies that no cable operator/MSO shall carry or include in his cable service any television broadcast or channel which has not been registered by the central government for being viewed within the territory of India.

Failure to comply with these directions would invite penal action by the central and state governments/UT including withdrawal of license and confiscation of equipment.

The ministry released a notice stating that some private channels which are not permitted by the MIB are being transmitted by some cable operators on their networks. The ministry has reports of the broadcast of unauthorised channels by LCOs/MSOs in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which are not permitted by this ministry for being broadcast into the country.

It further said, “The UT administration/district administration may ensure that no TV channels, which are not permitted, are transmitted in your district by any cable operator. In case of violations, necessary and prompt action must be taken by the authorized officers in the district against the defaulters to stop transmission of these channels.”