
Sun18, the strategic alliance between the Sun Group and Network18, has officially commenced operations and will distribute a total of 33 channels from Viacom18, Sun TV Network, Disney India Network and Network18. Recently, MSM Discovery filed a petition against Viacom18 to stop the Viacom18 channels from moving out of their ‘One Alliance’ bouquet. However, Bombay High Court refused to grant any order in favour of MSM Discovery, and therefore Sun18 operations remain unaffected. The matter has been posted for hearing on August 17, 2010.
According to the Sun18 spokesperson, “Contrary to some news reports, the Sun18 operations have not been disrupted and we continue business as usual.”
Viacom18 has also initiated legal action against MSM Discovery before the TDSAT, claiming damages, material breaches, misrepresentation and under-reporting of subscriber base. In the petition, Viacom18 also sought for various other interim reliefs and disclosure.
The interim application has been kept for hearing before the TDSAT on Wednesday, July 21, 2010.