Reliance Jio, GSMA nudge TRAI on network slicing potentially violating net neutrality

Reliance Jio, a major Indian telecom operator, along with the global industry body GSMA, has submitted proposals to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) suggesting the enablement of service-based network slicing. These submissions were made as part of TRAI's consultation on quality of service.

The core concern raised by critics is that allowing service-based network slicing could potentially violate the principles of net neutrality. While network slicing itself is a technical capability, its implementation could lead to discriminatory practices. There is a risk that operators might offer differentiated speeds, latency, or data packages for specific services or applications, thereby treating different internet content unequally.

Reliance Jio has argued that its existing license conditions provide the flexibility to deploy network slices according to its business plans without regulatory hindrance. The company has also highlighted the demand for enterprise-specific 5G services that leverage network slicing. GSMA, in its submission, has outlined potential types of network slices, including retail internet access for consumers, specialized connectivity services, and enterprise solutions.

TRAI has faced criticism for framing network slicing as a quality of service issue, which some view as a non-transparent approach. The Department of Telecommunications in India has reportedly asked TRAI to reconsider aspects related to net neutrality, suggesting external pressure on the regulator.

Reliance Jio has expressed reluctance to disclose specific details about how network slicing will be implemented, citing the need to protect commercially sensitive information. This lack of transparency has amplified concerns regarding the future adherence to net neutrality principles.