SPNI has strongly opposed this action, describing it as arbitrary and potentially retaliatory. The broadcaster believes this decision may be linked to their audit request of Tata Play’s subscriber management system, which they claim revealed discrepancies. SPNI has called the removal of their channels misleading and argued that it was done without proper notice.
The controversy has sparked significant debate in the broadcasting industry. Analysts suggest that while Tata Play’s decision to optimize its channel lineup could be seen as a business strategy to enhance customer satisfaction by lowering costs, the timing and manner of the removal have raised questions about the underlying motives.
Subscribers affected by the change have expressed mixed reactions. Some appreciate the reduced monthly charges, while others are frustrated by the loss of access to their preferred SPNI channels. The option to re-add these channels by giving a missed call has been highlighted as a flexible feature, though it comes with an additional cost.
This development marks a significant shift in the dynamics between broadcasters and distributors in India’s competitive television market. As Tata Play continues to refine its service offerings, the impact on subscriber satisfaction and SPNI’s viewer base remains to be seen. The ongoing dispute also underscores the need for transparent and fair practices in the industry, particularly concerning audits and channel management.