WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and all the other applications that allow you to make calls for free might soon become chargeable if the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s proposal comes into effect.
Based on the report coming in from The Economic Times, the Department of Telecom (DoT) has sought TRAI’s views on it.
Reports that have surfaced on the matter say that the development on the matter comes after the pressure coming in from the telecom operators and services providers to look into their grievances that call for the “same service, same rules” principle for the entire industry.
The same proposal was initially sent back by the TRAI in 2008 when the internet was in the developing stage. The DoT now taking cognizance of the telecom operator’s matter has now asked the TRAI to file a comprehensive reference in the matter.
The report even says that the new rules have been asked to be framed keeping in mind the internet telephone operators and even the OTT players.
The original TRAI’s recommendation made back in 2008 said, that Internet Service Providers can be allowed to provide internet calls on normal mobile networks. However, they will have to pay for interconnection charges. The issue again came to light back in 2016-17 when net neutrality was considered.
It is said that the telecom operators have been asking for a law to regulate internet-based calling and messaging services for a long. Their other demands include the same level of license fee, compliance with legal interception, quality of service, etc.
What if the law is passed on the recommendation of TRAI:
If a law of this nature is passed users relying on free texting and calling services such as Google Duo, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other similar platforms that enable the calling services will have to pay for the services.
What actually important is to see how tariffs and charges will be implemented that will finally cost the user’s pocket. Does this mean that the users will have to buy a separate pack for it to make a video or audio call through the social media platforms or you will be coughing up extra through the data pack you buy?