This Article is From Sep 28, 2011

Telemarketing ban limits you to 100 SMS-es a day

Telemarketing ban limits you to 100 SMS-es a day
New Delhi: A new attempt to protect you from spam sms-es and telemarketing calls will also limit how many text messages you can send in a day.  So if you have itchy fingers, watch out.  Starting yesterday, nobody can send more than 100 sms-es a day.

The new rule, introduced by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, is aimed at checking those random text messages you receive on how to buy a sauna belt, or "lose motapa (get thinner)."  

But it has its critics. "We had recently undertaken a campaign, and had to send nearly 200 messages every day. If this rule had been applicable then, our campaign would have faced severe setbacks. Their intentions are commendable, but their method is wrong. Why can't they limit the number of messages that tele-marketing firms send out every day," said Abhisekh Lamba, an engineering student from Mumbai.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) also expressed concern over the order. Rajan S Mathews, director general, COAI, said, "All service providers have made necessary arrangements to comply with the TRAI regulation, in order to curb the menace of telemarketing calls. However, many of our officers have expressed reservations about the 100 SMSes per day limitation. We have also asked TRAI to reconsider the move."

Mathews added, "While we are eager to eradicate the menace of pesky communication - which amounts to an invasion of the consumer's privacy - we are equally particular about safeguarding the consumer's rights. The consumer reserves the right to choose any method of communication, which is convenient for him. No artificial limitations should be imposed upon this basic liberty."
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