In a significant move, major telecom operators in India have called for over-the-top (OTT) communication applications to be regulated under the country’s new telecommunications framework. Industry giants Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) have urged the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to bring popular apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram under the licensing regime outlined in the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

In their joint response to Trai’s consultation paper, which seeks input on the framework for service authorizations under the new Act, these entities argue that OTT communication services should be subject to the same regulatory standards as traditional telecom services. They assert that these apps, which provide calling and messaging services over the internet, fall within the definition of “access services” as per the new legislation.

According to the submission by COAI, the regulatory framework should be updated to ensure that OTT communication services are governed by the same rules that apply to licensed telecom operators. This, they believe, would help level the playing field and address competitive imbalances.

The call for regulation comes amidst growing concerns from traditional telecom operators about the increasing market share and competitive edge enjoyed by OTT platforms, which operate without the same regulatory oversight as licensed service providers.

The request for regulation is expected to spark a debate on the balance between fostering innovation and ensuring fair competition in the telecommunications sector. Trai is currently reviewing feedback from various stakeholders to shape the future regulatory environment for telecom services in India.

As the sector evolves, the outcome of this consultation could have significant implications for both consumers and service providers, potentially redefining the landscape of communication services in the country.