The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has asked Vodafone India and Idea Cellular to stop 3G services in circles where the two operators do not hold 3G licences.
Further, DoT has also imposed fine of Rs 5.5 billion and Rs 3 billion on Vodafone India and Idea Cellular, respectively.
Earlier, regarding the same issue, the Delhi High Court had set aside an earlier court order which allowed Bharti Airtel to continue providing 3G services in circles where it did not hold 3G spectrum.
In 2010, operators like Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India and Idea Cellular had won 3G spectrum in 13, nine and 11 circles, respectively. In order to offer pan-India 3G services these operators entered into 3G roaming arrangements with each other. However, DoT has termed such roaming arrangements illegal and directed these players to discontinue offering 3G services in areas where they do not hold 3G licence.
