India blocks Facebook Zuckerberg's Free Basics internet service app

India's telecoms regulator has blocked Facebook's Free Basics internet service app as part of a ruling in favor of net neutrality.

 

The scheme offered free access to included selected local news and weather forecasts, the BBC, Wikipedia and some health sites. However, it was opposed by supporters of net neutrality who argued that data providers should not favor some online services over others.

"No service provider shall offer or charge discriminatory tariffs for data services on the basis of content," ruled the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. The body had been investigating whether any online content should be prioritized over others, or offered for free while others were not.


Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg said he would work to make Free Basics legal.

"While we're disappointed with today's decision," he wrote. "I want to personally communicate that we are committed to keep working to break down barriers to connectivity in India and around the world.

"Connecting India is an important goal we won't give up on, because more than a billion people in India don't have access to the internet. We know that connecting them can help lift people out of poverty, create millions of jobs and spread education opportunities."

The World Wide Web Foundation, founded by Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the web, welcomed the regulator's decision.

"The message is clear: We can't create a two-tier Internet - one for the haves, and one for the have-nots," said programme manager Renata Avila.

"We must connect everyone to the full potential of the open Web.

"We call on companies and the government of India to work with citizens and civil society to explore new approaches to connect everyone as active users, whether through free data allowances, public access schemes or other innovative approaches."

Credit: BBC