World’s Biggest Democracy Bans Zero Rating Of Specific Services

Today, India, the world’s largest democracy, has stood up for the free and open Web by passing clear net neutrality rules that ban zero rating of specific services. (Telecoms Regulatory Authority of India press release, full regulations and notes)  The decision follows a broad public consultation involving over one million submissions from individual citizens, civil society and businesses.

The new “Prohibition of Discriminatory Tariffs for Data Services Regulations” state that no service provider can offer or charge discriminatory tariffs for data services on the basis of content. They explicitly outlaw zero-rating of specific services, but leave the door open to free or discounted initiatives that offer access to the whole Internet. In their explanatory notes, TRAI make clear that they have weighed up the costs and benefits, but conclude that “in India, given that a majority of the population are yet to be connected to the internet, allowing service providers to define the nature of access would be equivalent of letting TSPs shape the users’ internet experience.”

Renata Avila, Web We Want programme manager at the World Wide Web Foundation says:

“As the country with the second largest number of Internet users worldwide, this decision will resonate around the world. It follows a precedent set by Chile, the United States  and others which have adopted similar net neutrality safeguards. The message is clear: We can’t  create a two-tier Internet – one for the haves, and one for the have-nots. We must  connect everyone to the full potential of the open Web.”

“We call on companies and the government of India to work with citizens and civil society to explore new approaches to connect everyone as active users, whether through free data allowances, public access schemes or other innovative approaches. We’re confident these regulations lay the groundwork for all Indians to benefit from the Web equally.”

The Web Foundation congratulates the citizens and civil society groups who have worked tirelessly to uphold net neutrality and stand up for a future of true digital equality. As noted by the Save the Internet Coalition, this is one victory in a long-term mission to define the future of the Internet in India. We encourage citizens to continue engaging in these discussions and make sure Indians build the Web they want together.