December 15: Cable operators met with the Multi Service Operator (MSO) to discuss the Cabinet’s decision to regularize Direct To Home or DTH Television. At a meeting held to discuss the Cabinet’s decision to regularize DTH Television, cable operators expressed concerns that their business would stumble if DTH TV is regularized.

Rinzy Dorji, one of the Cable Operators told BBS that given the number and the variety of channels accessible through DTH TV, customers will definitely go for it.

“Cable operators are subjected to regulations and taxations. It would be only fair if DTH operators are also subjected to same regulations and taxations. Otherwise it would be very difficult for the cable operators to sustain”, said Rinzy Dorji.

Rinzy Dorji said most cable operators availed loans from financial institutions and invested in cable service operation. He said many people will end up losing their jobs.

Cable Operators said they are only allowed to air channels that are approved by Bhutan InfoCom and Media Authority (BICMA). They said they should be allowed to air as much channel as possible.

The Chairman of the Association of Private Cable Operators Pema Thinley said they will approach the Government to discuss the issue.

There are around 48 cable providers in the country.