TDSAT tells Reliance Big TV to clear dues or face disconnection of service from Antrix- Television Post
In a major setback for direct to home (DTH) operator Reliance Big TV, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has allowed Antrix Corporation to disconnect transponder service to the DTH operator if it fails to clear dues within the time frame set by the tribunal. With the dues escalating to Rs 23.32 crore minus TDS till March, the tribunal has directed the DTH operator to deposit the first installment of 50% by 22 March and the balance by 31 March. The TDS of Rs. 2.60 crores will also have to be deposited in the proper account as per law by 31 March. “The respondent would be at liberty to disconnect service to the petitioner if there is any default on the part of the petitioner in complying with the above directions within the time indicated,” the tribunal said in its order. The DTH operator, which is now owned by Pantel Technologies and Veecon Television and Media, has pleaded for grant of one more opportunity on the assurance that it will abide by the time...