DoT to seek the MoF’s approval to refund BSNL for surrendering its broadband spectrum

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is planning to seek the Ministry of Finance?s approval to refund Rs 67.24 billion to Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), say news reports.

DoT is refunding the amount to BSNL on account of the operator surrendering its broadband wireless spectrum in six regions. DoT in principle agrees with BSNL?s request for an early refund of the spectrum money, since the operator had paid a higher price for the wireless broadband spectrum in the 2.5 GHz band, which was linked to the auction-discovered price of the more expensive 2.3 GHz band.

However, DoT is approaching the Ministry of Finance to clarify whether it can refund the spectrum fee to BSNL before re-selling the surrendered broadband wireless spectrum. DoT is of the opinion that BSNL’s demand for an early refund is justified.