The Supreme Court of India has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought the regulation of internet prices in the country. The plea aimed to ensure that internet prices remain affordable for all citizens. During the hearing, the Supreme Court stated that such regulatory measures should be handled by the corresponding legislative and regulatory bodies rather than the judiciary.
“The issue of internet pricing should be addressed by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) or the legislature,” said the bench.
Court declines internet price control
“We cannot dictate pricing policies in such a dynamic market.”
The petitioners argued that unregulated internet prices were causing inequity in access, which they claimed violated citizens’ rights to information and education.
They also highlighted that high internet costs could hinder the government’s Digital India initiative, which aims to provide digital infrastructure to every citizen. The Supreme Court maintained its position, suggesting that while concerns about internet affordability are valid, they must be addressed through proper institutional channels equipped to handle these issues. Major telecom operators have not yet commented on the court’s decision.
This move by the Supreme Court emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, involving both regulatory oversight and market-driven mechanisms, to ensure that internet services are accessible and sustainable for all sectors of society.
Image Credits: Photo by Ian Hutchinson on Unsplash
