Thu Feb 05 22:06:47 UTC 2026: # TRAI Amends Interconnection Regulations to Enhance Transparency and Accountability in Broadcasting Audits

The Story

On February 5, 2026, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2026. These amendments follow extensive consultations with stakeholders and aim to improve audit-related provisions, reduce repetitive audits for Distribution Platform Operators (DPOs), incorporate infrastructure sharing provisions, enhance auditor accountability, and categorize auditors based on experience. The goal is to ensure enhanced credibility, transparency, and accountability in the audit process within the broadcasting and cable sector.

The new regulations outline specific timelines for audits, requiring distributors to conduct audits and submit reports to broadcasters by September 30 each year, based on the financial year instead of the calendar year. Broadcasters are also permitted to depute representatives during audits to ensure transparency. Mechanisms are put in place for broadcasters to seek clarifications from auditors and, if necessary, conduct their own audits after obtaining TRAI approval. Annual audits are now optional for DPOs with fewer than 30,000 subscribers, but broadcasters retain the option to audit such DPOs at their own cost.

Key Points

  • TRAI issued the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2026 on February 5, 2026.
  • The amendments address concerns raised by stakeholders regarding audit-related provisions, repetitive audits, and auditor accountability.
  • Distributors must conduct audits and submit reports to broadcasters by September 30 annually, based on the financial year.
  • Broadcasters can depute representatives during audits and conduct their own audits if dissatisfied with the initial report, subject to TRAI approval.
  • Annual audits are optional for DPOs with fewer than 30,000 subscribers, but broadcasters can conduct their own audits at their own cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Increased Transparency: The amendments aim to improve transparency by allowing broadcasters to actively participate in the audit process.
  • Enhanced Accountability: The regulations seek to hold auditors more accountable for the accuracy and reliability of their reports.
  • Reduced Redundancy: The optional audit provision for smaller DPOs aims to reduce resource wastage and operational disruptions.
  • Stakeholder Confidence: The overall objective is to boost stakeholder confidence in the audit process.
  • Regulatory Fine-Tuning: TRAI is actively responding to industry feedback and adjusting regulations to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

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