Broadcast regulator TRAI said on Thursday that cable operators can only charge a fixed amount from each subscriber, as prevalent on December 26 last year, but there is no ceiling on the number of subscribers each operator can enlist.

Also, the regulator made it clear that if the cable operator provides lesser number of channels than on December 26, the cable charges should be reduced on a pro-rata basis.

Clarifying the earlier order in which it had frozen rates at December 26 levels, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India said: "If under the agreement applicable on December 26 specified the total amount as rate or charge per subscriber multiplied by the subscriber base, the ceiling applies to the per subscriber charge and not to the subscriber base."

However, it has washed its hands off any disputes between two or more service providers, saying such disputes will be settled by TDSAT while specifying that it will not entertain individual complaints.

Warning against contravention of its orders, it said in case of violation, TRAI has the option of launching prosecution against the offenders.