Subject: Comment on Regulatory Framework for Over-the-top (OTT) services
From: Rajesh Mehar
Date: 09-Apr-15 12:00 PM
To: advqos@trai.gov.in

Respected Shri A. Robert. J. Ravi, Advisor (TD & QoS),

Dear sir, my name is Rajesh Mehar, and I live in Bangalore, Karnataka. I recently learned about the public consultation regarding the TRAI's consideration of a Regulatory Framework for Over-the-top (OTT) services in India.

I would like to vociferously oppose the move by Telecom companies to control which websites can be accessed by consumers through their mobile phones. Specifically, I would request the TRAI to uphold the principles of Net Neutrality as outlined below:

"To ensure a thriving and neutral Internet, the following issues need to be addressed:

i. The Internet must be kept open and neutral. Reachability between all endpoints connected to the Internet, without any form of restriction, must be maintained.

ii. All data traffic should be treated on an equitable basis no matter its sender, recipient, type, or content. All forms of discriminatory traffic management, such as blocking or throttling should be prohibited.

iii. Network service providers should refrain from any interference with internet users’ freedom to access content (including applications of their choice)

iv. There should be restricted use of packet inspection software (including storage and re-use of associated data) to control traffic.

v. Complete information on reasonable traffic management practices and justifications for the same must be accessible and available to the public. Telecom operators should be transparent and accountable to any changes in practices.

vi. Non-neutral treatment of traffic for “voluntary” law enforcement purposes must be prohibited unless there is a legal basis for it."

I request you to please keep the interests of the general public as foremost when considering this decision. Development must be inclusive and for all citizens, not just rich Telecom companies.

Looking forward to a public-friendly decision from you.

Best regards,
Rajesh Mehar.