Hampering the freedom of speech! The first thing Jagan did after he assumed the charge as the Chief Minister. But seems like the new CM is less aware of the fact that curbing the power of media in a democratic country is not a cinch rather will push into dire consequences.
Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) on Tuesday has imposed a heavy fine on AP Fibernet regarding the TV 5 channel ban case. The regulatory body has expressed its discontent over AP Fibernet’s irresponsible behaviour for snubbing the orders over and over. Stating that AP Fibernet’s move seems to be deliberate, the tribunal has imposed a heavy tax fine of Rs 2 lakh per day until the channel is restored.
The tribunal affirmed that the corporation failed to file an affidavit and to disclose satisfactory reasons for their irresponsible actions. It has also sought an explanation for the term ‘upon the orders from the high command’. The tribunal vehemently objected the allegation made by the government agencies on news channels and said that was violating the freedom of expression. TDSAT marked that it would directly deal with the so-called ‘high command’ if any further violations. The tribunal also imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakhs for violating the orders so far.
