TRAI to start pre-consultation on net neutrality in few days

Telecom regulator Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will start pre-consultation on net neutrality within two to three days.

"We will start pre-consultation on net neutrality in 2-3 days," Trai Chairman R S Sharma told reporters on Wednesday. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has already resolved differential tariff issue, which is a major part of net neutrality.

However, the subject did not cover other parts of net neutrality like framework for internet-based calls, messaging, throttling of internet speed on the basis of content or paid preferences. The industry body COAI and telecom major Airtel has written to Trai seeking clarification on differential rules, whether they can offer services exclusively to their customers.

Sharma said Trai will take a call on the issue raised by companies based on tariff they file with the regulator. Every telecom operator needs to file tariff with the Trai for the service they intend to provide to their customers