Govt to decide on Star after panel examines issue

Come Wednesday and the oft-asked question will be repeated yet again. Will Star News get yet another weekly extension as an inter-ministerial group grapples with the intricacies of the complicated corporate structure or will the ‘‘foreign’’ channel be asked to uplink from outside?

Officials in the ministry do not say an outright no, but suggest it will take time as they prepare a factual note for the group comprising Law and Department of Company Affairs to examine. But they do divulge their disappointment at the responses furnished by Star’s shell company Media Content and Communication Services which confirms that editorial control and veto powers in crucial decisions still rests with Star though it has a minority stake in the company.

Ministry officials said they will spell out their mind after the group meets later in the week. ‘‘We will be weighing the pros and cons of the application before preparing the note,’’ officials said. After the group takes stock, it will be taken up by the Group of Ministers comprising I&B, Finance and Law ministries, from where it is likely to be taken to the Cabinet. While the group deliberates, the Indian Media Group, comprising media companies, will seek to persuade the Centre to change the media policy in light of Star News application to ensure a level-playing field .