TDSAT delivers split verdict on the 3G roaming issue
In continuation of the 3G roaming pacts issue, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has delivered a split verdict on the petition brought out by telecom operators in this context.
The petition was in response to a government order requesting them to stop offering 3G services beyond their licensed circles through mutual roaming pacts.
Prior to this, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had said that such roaming agreements were illegal as they were tantamount to the operators functioning as mobile virtual network operators, which isn’t permitted as per current licence conditions.
In its verdict, TDSAT has said that the operators and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) ought to move the case to the High Court.
Also, TDSAT has permitted the operators to continue providing roaming services until a final decision is taken by the High Court on the subject.
Telecom operators including Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India and Idea Cellular are currently providing 3G services in most parts of the country by inking roaming pacts with each other. The three telecom operators claim that their roaming pacts are in compliance with the stipulations of current telecom licenses.
