TRAI rules against differential pricing for Internet services

Free Basics is a subsidised internet platform that gives users Facebook and a few other services for free.

The rule doesn’t prevent mobile operators from offering free data, as long as it can be used to access any content. “For instance, providing limited free data that enables a user to access the entire Internet is not prohibited”, TRAI wrote.

Although Zuckerberg’s response to the blocking of Free Basics comes across very positive, it was a big blow to the company. “We care about these people, and that’s why we’re so committed to connecting them”, Zuckerberg added. The service is now available in 36 countries around the globe, helping to bring Internet access to more than 19 million people thatFacebook says wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to get online. Although anyone can apply to have their site classed as a “free basic”, Facebook’s restrictions ban certain services that use a lot of bandwidth, restricting access to streaming sites and download providers.

As you would expect, Facebook is very disappointed about the TRAI’s decision. “This restricts one of Internet.org’s initiatives, Free Basics, as well as programs by other organizations that provide free access to data”, he said.

Facebook also responded to critics of “Free Basics” previous year by creating a new platform for outside developers to contribute apps for the program. But protests against Free Basics began in India nearly as soon as the program was announced.

The Facebook CEO said he will continue working towards providing free internet access to all.

The Authority today issued regulations in this regard prohibiting them from entering into any arrangement, agreement or contract, with any person that may cause discriminatory tariffs.

Currently, there are 300 million Indians who have access to mobile internet but still has a billion more who are not connected to the internet.

Vikas Pandey, digital producer for the BBC in India, said there had been an intense publicity campaign on both sides of the debate, with Facebook taking out front page advertising in national newspapers to defend the scheme. Facing a saturation point in developed areas such as the U.S. and Europe, the company wants to find more users in developing nations.

“Trai’s notification is in support of the government’s focus on start-up as well as penetration of internet, without compromising on access to content”, said Amresh Nandan, Research Director, Gartner.