MUMBAI: After the last copyright hearing on 26 August, the Copyright Board commenced its hearing on the music royalty issue between the radio and music industry on Monday.

During the last hearing that lasted from 24 to 26 August, the radio industry had expressed its displeasure over the slow procedure adopted by the music industry. In the first hearing today, only two radio witnesses were examined by the music industry. The hearing will last for two days and a few radio witnesses will be questioned.

A source present at the proceedings today says, It is disappointing to see the slow course of action undertaken at the Copyright Board hearings. Only five cross witnesses will be cross examined in the two hearings this month. The next hearing will be held in the month of March and royalty issue will continue to haunt the industry....

The delay in Copyright Board hearings will affect the participation of existing and new players in Phase III. Radio players including Radio Mirchi had refused to enter Phase III without a solution on the royalty end.

On the proposed amendment in the Copyright Act by the government, the radio industry had approached the HRD Minister Kapil Sibal. The source adds, the meeting would reap positive benefits for the industry as the HRD minister has assured that no amendments will be passed without bilateral talks with the FM broadcasters 

Stay tuned on this space for an update on tomorrow's Copyright hearing.