The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will hold a consumer outreach programme (COP) in Shillong on June 28 to interact with the general public and sensitise them on the consumer-centric measures it has taken recently.
TRAI regulates the telecoms, cable and broadcasting sectors and, in its role, issues a number of regulations, orders and directions for the benefit of consumers.
These are directed at service providers, which TRAI monitors for compliance but, “unless the consumers are fully aware of these measures and their rights under these regulations, etc, the benefits cannot be ensured to the desired extent,” a press release stated today.
For example, most consumers are not aware of the TRAI-mandated consumer complaint redressal mechanism. Under this mechanism, consumers can lodge complaints with the complaint centres of the service providers through toll free numbers and if the complaint is not resolved within the stipulated time, he/she can make an appeal to the Appellate Authority.
Similarly, under TRAI regulations, one can claim refunds for money deducted for activation of value-added services without consent by following TRAl-mandated procedures.
It is also felt necessary to have direct interaction with consumers and other stakeholders to understand the problems and issues being faced by the users at local level and obtain feedback and suggestions directly from them.
Keeping this in view, TRAI is holding COPs all over the country. Shillong’s event will take place at Shillong Club from 10am on June 28. Those interested can contact Nilay Dutta via email on sro1.kolkata@trai.gov.in.
The programme will comprise mainly of a presentation by TRAl on the regulations, etc and an interactive session. During the interactive session, consumers and others will be free to raise issues being faced by them. They can also put forth suggestions for improvement of service quality, etc. The consumers can also learn a lot about digitisation of cable tv, which is being implemented in the country in a phased manner.
