Net neutrality was a topic of least importance for Indian consumers until Airtel tinkered with the issue of segregating data use. Last week, Airtel confirmed to start charging users who use VoIP services on their existing data plans. In simple words, even if a user has a 3G/2G data pack activated, use of a service like Skype, Viber etc. will attract additional charges or users can purchase what a VoIP pack.
Airtel tried to justify its move to make their business “viable and sustainable,” which is an irony because instead of improving their services, they’re blaming the reduction of their revenue on other services. Needless to say, this didn’t bode well with many consumers and created a furor over the issue on social media urging consumers to boycott the operator.
Owing to the consumer pressure and negative publicity, Airtel has issued a new statement saying they’ll delay the VoIP pack implementation and wait for the consultation paper to be released by TRAI. The governing body is working on a paper that will distinguish the role of “OTT” (Over the Top) services, which includes VoIP, messaging and other services that rely on users using the data heavily.
This is actually a smart move by Airtel as the company has now put the onus on the governing body to decide if it’s fair to charge for the use or not. In a statement to Financial Express, TRAI hinted legitimacy of operators charging for such services.
As a consumer, what do you think? Do you feel this betrayed since companies are trying to fleece by charging extra for what you’ve already paid for? Should operators be concerned as to what a consumer does with his allotted free data? Do let us know.
Leave a Reply