The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), on October 6, 2026, has advised Members to ensure compliance with TRAI directions relating to pre-tagging, scrubbing and validation of variable fields in SMS Content Templates to avoid disruption of legitimate commercial communications.
The following has been stated:
TRAI had mandated that variable fields in SMS Content Templates be appropriately pre-tagged and subjected to scrubbing and validation to prevent misuse of registered Content Templates and ensure that the variable portion of an SMS is used only for its registered purpose. The variable-field scrubbing mechanism has been operating in logger mode since July 1, 2026, under which non-compliant SMS messages are currently being delivered while generating error codes for corrective action. This has been permitted only as a temporary measure.
TRAI has decided to proceed towards activation of blocker mode, under which non-compliant SMS traffic will be rejected. Accordingly, Principal Entities are required to review their SMS Content Templates, particularly those used during the preceding 90 days, identify and appropriately pre-tag all variable fields, monitor delivery errors and coordinate with the concerned Access Providers for corrective action.
The required exercise is to be completed within 30 days, i.e. by October 17, 2026, to avoid disruption of legitimate commercial communications. Members have been advised to take note of and ensure compliance with the above requirements.
[Notice No. 20261006-20]
