DoT panel aims to create parity between telcos & net telephony
NEW DELHI: The recommendation of a high-powered committee on net neutrality to licence domestic internet telephony like WhatsApp, Viber and Skype is widely seen as a fair step to create a level-playing ground between these services and domestic telecom operators as it adheres to the principle of "same service, same rules." A regulatory and licensing regime on internet telephony in the domestic market is expected to help telecom operators provide legitimate revenue from voice and allow them to provide affordable internet as well as invest in mobile infrastructure and spectrum. Consequently, the recommendation has been welcomed by the telecom industry. Cellular Operators of India (COAI), the industry body representing GSM mobile companies such as Bharti Airtel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular, said the move is in the right direction. "It is indeed what is required. Voice-based OTT service players should be subjected to the same regulations and licensing regime as those which...