New Delhi. DTH service provider Tata Play has started removing Sony Pictures Network India’s channels from its bouquet, citing low viewership. SPN has opposed the move and called it an “arbitrary” decision. Starting today, i.e. Thursday, Tata Play (formerly Tata Sky) has started de-packaging SPN channels from its curated packs. It says it is removing less-watched channels and adjusting the monthly fees accordingly.
When asked about this, Tata Play MD and CEO Harit Nagpal said, “The platform is restructuring channel packs by removing less watched channels and changing the monthly charge accordingly.” Nagpal said, “Customers who want to watch these channels can easily restore any of these removed channels by giving a missed call. We estimate that at least 75 percent of customers whose packs have been revised will benefit from the reduced charges.” Tata Sons has a 50 percent stake in Tata Play. Its revenue in FY24 was Rs 4,304.62 crore. It has around 10 million subscribers.
A shocking decision
While SPNI said in a statement that this is a “surprising decision” and the story of “decrease in viewership” fabricated by Tata Play is misleading. It said, “This arbitrary decision seems to have been taken without any notice to SPNI or clear consideration of the preferences of their customers.” Sony said – It seems that this is a revenge for the shortcomings we exposed in Tata Play by using our rights.
has done this before
This is not the first time that Tata Play has downgraded the plans of its customers. Earlier also, the company had downgraded the plans of its customers in March 2022, which helped them save Rs 30-100. However, this is the first time that Tata Play has decided to remove the service of a particular broadcaster from its platform. But those who want to watch Sony channels can continue this service by giving a missed call.
Tags: Business news, Sony TV
FIRST PUBLISHED : August 1, 2024, 22:33 IST