Coming out in support of internet neutrality, DMK treasurer M.K. Stalin, on Monday, said preferential access to websites will destroy start-ups and internet-based small businesses.
In a statement, he said the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) was proposing to bring in changes to the rules that would allow telecom companies preferential access to websites. “If this is allowed, companies will be allowed to charge extra for commonly used services such as whatsapp, youtube, web-based voice calling and many more. This will also allow telcos to allow preferential treatment of websites, allowing the big companies to destroy start-ups and internet-based small business by blocking or slowing them down,” he said.
This went against the very concept of the internet where every legal website or service was considered equal. “This attempt to increase the profits of the telecom companies by surrendering social gains should be condemned. I request the TRAI to dismiss this proposal and let the internet continue to be a neutral medium which serves our country and community instead of a select few companies,” Mr. Stalin said.
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