[dhawalhs]

This is where Facebook messaging and actual the Free Basics program are at odds. Free basics is basically 30+ websites which includes Facebook.

Whatsapp is not a part of free basics. Your uncle would have to buy a special'Whatsapp upgrade' if he wanted to message you on Whatsapp.

It's a clear violation of Net Neutrality principles and Facebook spent over $40 million trying to lobby for this to happen.

[tamana]

Net neutrality applies when your network provider holds destinations hostage. It doesn't apply when the destination volunteers to pay for your connectivity.

[fwn]

You accidentally approached the net neutrality mindset from an utility maximizing point of view.

A central premise of its advocats is that net neutrality is a value on its own. (More like a natural right.) Therefore, utility arguments that might favor a position in disagreement with netneutrality don't apply simply on a value basis.

That's probably the reason you got downvoted.

edit: There do exist a lot of utility arguments in favor of net neutrality. But most advocats use them as parallel constructs for their deeper reason of believe. A simple emotional test one could exercise: If you can not construct a case in which the violation of net neutrality could lead to a greater overall benefit, your position is probably more a believe than a result of rational consideration.