Kashmiri Cable Operators Accuse Jammu Counterparts of ‘Imperialism’
SEN Operators Cry Foul Over ‘Monopoly Tactics’
Cable Row Sparks Outrage in South Kashmir
Accusations Fly Against NC Leaders Over Cable Network Dispute
South Kashmir Cable Operators Demand Justice, Autonomy in Operations
Srinagar, Mar 1, KNT: In a bitter escalation of a long-simmering dispute, cable operators from South Kashmir on Friday accused Jammu-based cable players of acting in an “imperialistic” manner, alleging attempts to sabotage the functioning of the Site Entertainment Network (SEN). The operators slammed what they called “East India Company-like tactics” aimed at monopolizing the cable television market in Kashmir.
At the heart of the controversy is the allegation that Jammu-based cable interests are interfering with the operations of SEN — a network run entirely by local Kashmiri operators. “The aim is to dominate and control our platforms. They want to silence us economically and culturally,” said Fayaz Ahmed Bhat, president of the All Cable Operators Association (ACOA).
Bhat denied any financial irregularities on the part of SEN, asserting that the network owes nothing to any other operator. “These accusations are false and part of a larger plan to vilify us,” he said. “Jammu-based operators are trying to stifle our legitimate business operations purely because SEN is run by Kashmiris. This is about control, not compliance.”
He added that SEN is fully authorized and operates with proper documentation. “Our legal rights are being trampled despite having approached the court for justice. Their goal is to destroy our autonomy,” Bhat stated.
The growing discontent among local operators was visible earlier this week when many protested at Srinagar’s Press Enclave, alleging harassment and political meddling. Several pointed fingers at National Conference’s Jammu Provincial President Davinder Singh Rana and another figure, Subhash Choudhary, accusing them of attempting to dismantle SEN for personal and political gain.
“They are trying to crush a Kashmiri-run network under fabricated charges. It’s a well-planned strategy to destabilize and demoralize us,” one protesting cable operator said. “We are not asking for favors — we are demanding fair play and the right to run our business without external pressure.”
The protestors emphasized that their fight is not just about cable distribution, but about resisting undue control over Kashmir’s information and entertainment space. “We refuse to be anyone’s pawn. Justice must prevail,” Bhat concluded. [KNT]
