New Delhi: The controversial Conditional Access System (CAS) may be deferred beyond July 15, the government indicated on July 4 saying it will consider a recommendation for zone-wise implementation of CAS from September 1.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters after a meeting with Multi System Operators (MSOs) and Cable Operators (COs) at the Prime Minister's Office that the government "will give due consideration" to the recommendation made by the MSOs and COs.

He said under the recommendation the whole process of implementation of CAS would be completed in the four metros by December 1.

Prasad said it was agreed at the meeting by the operators with the Officer on Special Duty at the PMO Sudheendra Kulkarni from August 1 all the channels, including the pay channels, will be available for Rs 72 plus tax in the four metros.

PTI