"...it would be a fallacious assumption that low internet penetrations and speeds warrant that the OTT services should be kept out of the regulatory framework just to facilitate their growth." Reliance Jio in its submission to the TRAI, has argued (pdf) for a free market approach for VoIP and communication services, but, from what it seems, with their own variation of the definition of a free market. Notes from their response to the TRAI paper that looks at Licensing and regulation of apps and Internet companies in India, as well as Net Neutrality: 1. Registration of Internet communications apps to address security issues: Reliance Jio doesn't want a licensing regime for Internet services, but wants some kind of a regulatory framework to address security concerns, with communication services like Whatsapp and Viber, to bring them on par with telecom operators. Oddly enough, there is no a need for license, according to Jio, but it also says there can be a nominal entry fee and a minimal license fee. The paper cites an app called Voxox, which allows subscribers to make voice calls by assuming the identity of another person. Jio want these services to adhere to the same set of security standards as telecom operators, which include: Hosting services from within India. Setting up Lawful Interception and Monitoring (LIM) systems. Verification and authentication of consumers of telecom services. Providing necessary facilities for continuous monitoring of the system, not employing any bulk encryption equipment and taking prior evaluation and approval of Licensor for any encryption…
