Free ICC World Cup 2023 streaming on Disney+Hotstar: Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal

In a significant victory for Disney Star, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has ruled in favor of the broadcaster, allowing them to continue offering free streaming of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on their popular OTT platform, Disney+ Hotstar.

This decision comes after the All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) had sought TDSAT's intervention to stop Star India from providing free access to live cricket content on Disney+ Hotstar. The AIDCF argued that their members' customers should also enjoy complimentary access to these matches.

ICC World Cup 2023 Live streaming free on Disney+ Hotstar

An insider familiar with the situation revealed to the Economic Times, "The TDSAT denied interim relief to the AIDCF, refusing to impose an injunction against Disney Star's free streaming of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on mobile devices. The tribunal's preliminary assessment indicated that OTT services are not covered by the TRAI Act."

Disney Star, the official broadcaster for the World Cup 2023 on both television and digital platforms, had previously announced their decision to offer free streaming of the tournament on mobile devices through the Disney+ Hotstar app.

The AIDCF had raised concerns about discrimination between consumers, alleging that Disney Star was charging cable TV subscribers for the same content that they were providing free of charge on Disney+ Hotstar. The federation's complaint pointed out that this practice contradicted the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's framework, designed to ensure transparency, non-discrimination, and subscriber safety.

India has witnessed a growing trend of major sports events being streamed for free on OTT platforms. Last year, JioCinema streamed the FIFA World Cup live, and earlier this year, the platform provided free access to the Indian Premier League matches for all internet users in the country during the summer season. As the demand for free sports streaming rises, companies like JioCinema are focusing on expanding their offerings to cater to this growing market.