The issue of granting dual technology operators additional spectrum continues.
Prior to this, Reliance Communications (RCOM) and Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL) requested the Department of Telecommunications for additional spectrum.
RCOM requested additional spectrum in circles where it achieved the required subscriber base in accordance with its licence agreement with DoT. Similarly, TTSL asked for an additional spectrum of 1.8 MHz, as it had achieved certain subscriber-linked milestones specified in its telecom licence.
However, DoT rejected their petitions and the issue was taken to the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT). During the course of the proceedings, the operator had asked the tribunal whether the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) could be made a party to the case.
Now, TDSAT has declined this petition on grounds that TRAI has no role or authority in the process of spectrum allocation. TDSAT added that the regulator?s area of purview was to make recommendations.
Meanwhile, the tribunal has permitted the Cellular Operators? Association of India (COAI) to become a party in the case. COAI can now file additional relevant documents related to the case.
