TRAI Defends 10+2 Ad Cap, Says No Stay Despite Legal Challenges

• TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti confirmed that the 10+2 advertising cap remains valid, with no judicial stay on MIB rules or TRAI regulations.
• Broadcasters are mandated to comply with the existing 12-minute advertising limit per clock hour.
• TRAI conducted an audit and issued show-cause notices to channels found in default, excluding petitioners with interim protection from the Delhi High Court.
• The dispute over the ad cap dates back over a decade, with the matter currently pending before the Supreme Court.
• Broadcasters express concerns that strict implementation of the cap could strain revenues, especially with advertising shifting to digital platforms.

Why It Matters: TRAI asserts the 10+2 ad cap is legally binding, despite ongoing challenges and industry concerns.