The Association of Radio Operators for India (AROI), the official lobby body for private radio operators, has written to PM Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention in the issue of Red FM, a Sun Group FM Radio channel, not getting its clearance. It has pointed out that it will lead to closure of 20% of FM radio stations in the country.
AROI is the official association of private radio operators in India, with the objective of ensuring growth of the radio industry. AROI has sought the continuation of operations of Red FM.
“We have noted with concern the various reports in the media and otherwise that the home ministry has refused security clearance to Red FM (part of Sun Group) which could result in closure of over 45 stations in the country.
This would result in loss of employment of a few thousand direct employees, complete erosion of wealth created by this brand as well as loss of infotainment source for citizens in over 45 cities and towns in India,” the association said in a letter to Modi, a copy of which is also marked to Arun Jaitley, minister of information & broadcasting and Rajnath Singh, home minister.
According to AROI, radio is the only free to air media in India, wherein no charges are to be paid directly or indirectly by listeners. It is also easily accessible at no or low cost through mobiles or cheap radio sets.
“In fact, Red FM has received chief minister awards from Odissa and Andhra Pradesh for extensive coverage at the time of cyclone in these states. which helped saved lakhs of lives. Even during the Nepal earthquake, Red FM helped in raising money for victims in association with Nepalese radio stations, leading to confidence building in the civil society of our neighbouring country,” AROI pointed out.
It said the association was surprised that these stations face closure, due to a pending investigation against the major shareholder.
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