Trai supports selective WhatsApp, Telegram ban to end internet blackouts

New Delhi: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is in favour of a mechanism to selectively ban popular over-the-top (OTT) platforms, especially communication apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Telegram, in case a need arises, to ensure continuity of essential internet-driven services such as financial transactions, e-healthcare and online education.

"Currently, the authorities are not able to selectively ban WhatsApp, Telegram and others. They are banning the entire internet. The intent now is to continue essential services such as banking, healthcare and online educational services," a senior Trai official told ET on condition of anonymity. "It is not as if OTTs are targeted by bringing in such a regulatory framework."

Another official said sometimes false messages are exchanged, including in bulk, on communication platforms which can sometimes lead to social unrest and violence. So, the authority has to consider matters of national security while examining the feasibility and mechanism to be followed while dealing with critical situations.

Earlier this month, the sector watchdog released a consultation paper, seeking to explore a framework for selective banning of apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Telegram in a geographical area during emergency situations, instead of a blanket internet ban.

The paper, which also sought views about technical solutions to mitigate the challenges that can come with the selective banning of apps, followed a reference from the Department of Telecommunications, after a suggestion by the parliamentary standing committee on information and technology. The parliamentary panel had suggested that a policy on selective banning of mobile apps could be formulated.

The suggestion, though, has been strongly opposed by lobby groups representing OTT companies, such as the National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom) and the Internet and Mobile Association of India.

OTT providers argue that they are already regulated under the IT Act 2000, which was amended in 2008, and that additional laws would only hinder innovation. Some have called the proposal on the selective banning "draconian" and "anti-consumer".