PANAJI
The Goa Cable TV Networking and Service Providers Association has clarified that the non-payment of fees was due to the Electricity Department's withdrawal of its gazette, which suspended the fee collection. Addressing a press conference in the capital on Monday, the operators stated they are willing to pay the fees even now but have requested concessions on the arrears.
“The department, in 2021, just before the assembly elections, withdrew its 2015 gazette on fees. We had written to the department expressing our willingness to pay the charges but our payment was not accepted. On inquiry, we were told that it was instructed by the ex-Power Minister. In the absence of a mechanism, we were unable to make the payment," one of the association members said.
The association further stated that, as per the new guidelines they are willing to pay the charges stipulated by the Government of India. “However, we request that concessions be granted on arrears to ensure the viability of the cable and internet service business,” the member stated.
A delegation met the Chief Secretary and the Chief Electrical Engineer (Electricity Department) with such requests, which the members claim was fruitful. The association also sought to pay Rs 100 per pole, as per the new rules, instead of Rs 300 per pole.
