Free data isn't bad, says Ajit Pai, FCC; supports open access to Internet

Ajit Pai, chairman of US Federal Communications Commission has said that he backs open and free access to the Internet but doesn’t think that free data is bad.

"Certain core principles of a free Internet, that Internet service providers shouldn't be allowed to block lawful content must be at the heart of policy," Pai, 44, told ET. "The principles must be upheld with the consideration that investment in infrastructure must be encouraged."

Pai, who has studied in Harvard University and Chicago Law School, has several years of experience working in the telecom industry. Prior to becoming the chairman of the commission, he had served in the commission for several years.

He is also the first American of Indian origin to hold the position.

FCC had decided to scrap a decision taken by the previous administration to investigate the zero-rated products, which led to major US carriers announcing their decisions to introduce unlimited data plans over the last few weeks.

"That's I think a sign of a healthy competitive market place," he said.

In India, these zero-rated products, which allow providers to provide certain internet content at lower or no charges, was banned last year by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), in order to keep the Internet "open and non-discriminatory."

BRIDGING DIGITAL DIVIDE
Talking about TRAI chairman RS Sharma, Pai said that they both know each other, and he believes that they both share a desire to bridge the digital divide.

"I have known him for a number of years and have met him several times. Obviously, he is a counterpart but I would like to think of him as a friend," Pai said. "I have told him many times that the US-India relationship is a deep and enduring one and I am deeply committed to doing my part to make sure that between his government and mine, we keep that relationship strong and going."

Refusing to comment on India's net neutrality rules citing lack of facts, he said that consumers’ benefit is everyone’s priority.

Having family roots in Mangaluru, Pai’s parents moved to US two years before he was born.

(Image source: WSJ)