Facebook Free Basics service was banned in India for a short period last year and now the Indian government has banned the service completely.
The government in India have now introduced new regulations that makes zero rated Internet services in the country illegal.
Understanding Zero-Rated Internet Services
Zero-rated Internet services refer to offerings where certain content or applications are provided without counting against the user’s data cap. While this might seem beneficial at first glance, it raises significant concerns about net neutrality. Net neutrality is the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally, without favoring or blocking particular products or websites. The Indian government had concerns over net neutrality with the service and other services that allow people to access some content without using any of their data and Facebook’s Free Basics falls into this category.
Facebook was offering free internet access in India, but only to its own services and not other services, so this is where the net neutrality concerns have come from. By providing free access only to its own suite of services, Facebook was essentially creating a walled garden, which could potentially stifle competition and innovation. Critics argued that this could lead to a scenario where users are more likely to use Facebook’s services over others, simply because they are free, thereby giving Facebook an unfair advantage.
The Broader Implications of the Ban
The decision to ban Facebook’s Free Basics in India has broader implications for the future of internet access and digital equality in the country. On one hand, proponents of Free Basics argue that it provides essential internet access to those who might not otherwise be able to afford it. In a country where a significant portion of the population still lacks reliable internet access, this could be seen as a step towards bridging the digital divide.
However, opponents counter that true digital equality can only be achieved through open and unrestricted access to the entire internet, not just a curated subset of services. They argue that initiatives like Free Basics could set a dangerous precedent, where large corporations have the power to control what parts of the internet people can access for free. This could undermine the very principles of an open and free internet.
Moreover, the ban reflects a growing global trend towards stricter regulations on internet services to ensure fair competition and protect consumer rights. Countries around the world are grappling with similar issues, as they try to balance the need for innovation and investment in digital infrastructure with the principles of net neutrality and fair competition.
In conclusion, while the ban on Facebook’s Free Basics in India might seem like a setback for those advocating for increased internet access, it is a significant step towards ensuring a fair and open internet for all. The Indian government’s decision underscores the importance of net neutrality and sets a precedent for other countries facing similar challenges. As the debate over internet access and digital equality continues, it is crucial to find solutions that provide affordable access to the internet without compromising on the principles of fairness and openness.
Source Gizmodo
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