Satellite and cable TV network providers yesterday submitted a letter to the National Reform Council (NRC) requesting reconsideration of an amended regulation covering the channel numbering system.
The change is expected to be approved by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) board tomorrow.
The Satellite TV Network Operators Club, Satellite TV Association of Thailand and Cable TV Trading Association have requested justification for the change from the NRC's media reform commission chaired by Chumpol Rodkhamdee.
Manop Tokarnka, president of the Satellite TV Network Operators Club, said the current regulation on channel numbering was a compromise between digital and satellite TV channels.
The regulation allows operators to arrange the first 10 channels freely on their own, so satellite and cable TV platforms have different channel line-ups.
But the new regulation, if approved, will require all satellite and cable TV platforms to reserve the first 36 channels for digital.
"We will be hurt and TV viewers confused again," Mr Manop said.
The 11th to 46th channels must currently be reserved for 36 digital TV channels (12 public and 24 commercial).
Mr Manop said satellite and cable network operators had followed the rule, and their subscribers had become familiar with the channel numbers.
Changing the numbering system frequently may create confusion among subscribers, who could then complain a lot, he said.
The channel numbers are arranged by over-the-air software, which is created by satellite TV operators.
The software is their intellectual property.
"If the amended channel numbering system takes effect, then we'll have to file a lawsuit with the Central Administrative Court against this unfair regulation," Mr Manop said.
The NBTC's broadcasting panel approved the amendment last month.
The change has divided TV operators. While digital operators support the amendment because they will benefit from a similar channel line-up on every platform, satellite and cable network providers fiercely oppose it.
Channel numbering is a key factor for TV operators to build awareness and understanding among viewers and earn revenue from an advantageous channel number that can access a wider group of viewers.