Qualcomm approaches TDSAT against DoT on the issue of BWA spectrum

Qualcomm has approached Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) against the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for reducing the validity of spectrum allotted to it, say news reports.

The company had bagged spectrum for 20 years, which has been reportedly reduced to 18 years and six months. TDSAT has asked DoT to file its response within four weeks on this subject.

In 2010, Qualcomm had won BWA spectrum in the Delhi, Mumbai, Kerala and Haryana circles for Rs 49 billion. As per the notice inviting application for spectrum, companies could utilise the BWA spectrum for 20 years from the date of awarding the spectrum block.

However, in September 2011, DoT rejected its application for an internet service provider (ISP) licence on various grounds. Thereafter, the company approached TDSAT in this context, which dismissed DoT?s view.

Qualcomm then obtained the licence. However, the issue of validity of the licence continues.