What is Net Neutrality? Understand it in layman’s language
Actually, the discussion on net neutrality was going on for many days but it came into the limelight when TRAI, under pressure from mobile operators, asked for feedback from internet users on charging for internet content. Internet users have given their views to TRAI till 24th April. If you have not given your feedback then it is okay, let us once again understand net neutrality in the language of common man.
What is net neutrality?
Net neutrality is not a defined phenomenon. In principle, Internet service providers should give equal importance to all traffic on their network. For example, the Airtel brand should not intentionally block or slow down any website or web content on its network, especially if it aims to benefit its own services.
How can Internet service providers harm net neutrality?
Internet providers have previously talked about charging extra for video calling services like Skype because they feel that such products harm their voice calling business. This is against the concept of net neutrality, which talks about giving equal importance to all traffic.
What is zero rating?
Airtel has launched an open marketing platform on the Internet. Through this you can avail many mobile apps for free. This platform has been named Airtel Zero. You will not have to pay data charges for using any app on this platform. Airtel will take its bill from its partner company or the app making company.
Even though it may sound beneficial for the customer right now, after some time it will harm the interests of the consumer. Because there is a possibility that consumers may get used to getting free service. In this race, those small companies will suffer losses, which do not have the capital to go into partnership with internet service providers. Gradually, after a while, new options for consumers will decrease.
However, Airtel is not alone in this race, Facebook has also launched Internet.org on the same policy. Earlier also many app companies had tied up with telecom operators for free service.
Who keeps an eye on this?
The responsibility of monitoring internet related services in India lies with Trai or Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. Currently, Trai has sought feedback from internet users. In the coming time, it will give its suggestions to the government.
