The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has reportedly started investigating both old and new tariffs across all operators in its investigation into predatory pricing and unlimited offers of all tariff plans. The regulator will examine 4G (5G offerings in cases), 3G and even 2G plans with the aim of finding out any violation of guidelines through predatory pricing or unlimited plan offerings.
This step was taken after Vodafone Idea Limited’s (Vi) allegations that Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel engaged in predatory pricing with their unlimited 5G data offers, while Vi is yet to launch 5G in the country. Jio was the first operator to promote 5G data plans priced at Rs 239 and above, while Airtel followed closely by offering an introductory offer of Rs 239 and above for 5G data. Jio also offered 5G upgrade 4G data voucher at Rs 61 for its subscribers who couldn’t match with its Rs 239 and above recharge pack, including Rs 119, Rs 149, Rs 179, Rs 199 and Rs 209.
The regulatory authority has reportedly started an investigation into Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) as part of the ongoing probe against Jio and Airtel. BSNL used to offer unlimited data packs on 2G and 3G data plans.
