Telecom tribunal TDSAT today asked sector regulator TRAI to decide on Reliance Jio’s free 4G service within a “reasonable time”.
A TDSAT bench, comprising members BB Srivastava and AK Bhargava, heard arguments of both sides — Airtel and TRAI — and posted the matter on February 1 for the next hearing.
The tribunal has directed the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to take a stand on Reliance Jio’s free 4G offer in reasonable time.
The TDSAT direction came while hearing a petition filed by Bharti Airtel, which has moved the tribunal against TRAI’s decision allowing Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio to continue with its free promotional offer beyond the stipulated 90 days, alleging that the regulator acted as “a mute spectator” to violations. In its 25-page petition before the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT), Airtel had asked the quasi-judicial body to direct the telecom sector regulator to ensure Reliance Jio does not provide its free voice and data plan beyond December 3. In the petition, Airtel had alleged that the regulator in its decision dated October 20 “erroneously” concluded that since Reliance Jio’s promotional offer of free services was only valid till December 3, it is consistent with the direction for 90 days.
Comments
Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide by our community guidelines for posting your comments.
We have migrated to a new commenting platform. If you are already a registered user of TheHindu Businessline and logged in, you may continue to engage with our articles. If you do not have an account please register and login to post comments. Users can access their older comments by logging into their accounts on Vuukle.