Idiot Boxes, Now, Useless Boxes

The last date for the compulsory installation of set top boxes for TVs in the twin cities is today, as mandated by the Centre, but 25,000 TV sets in Hyderabad don't have them. This means that 25,000 TV sets will pretty much be useless boxes, starting today, what with several channels going blank as early as last night.

To add to this, dealers in these devices are taking advantage of the urgency, and are charging anywhere between Rs. 1,200 to Rs. 2,000 for set top boxes worth Rs. 500 - Rs. 800.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister had sent a letter to the Centre requesting a delay of the digitalisation process, but this request has reportedly been refused.