We will challenge DoT if a fee on spectrum beyond 6.2 MHz is imposed: Vodafone

In a presentation to its investors, Vodafone reportedly said that it plans to approach the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) and the Supreme Court if the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) decides to charge a fee on existing 2G spectrum allocations beyond 6.2 MHz.

Further, it is believed that the company intends to challenge any decision DoT takes against the 3G roaming pacts inked between operators. The operator feels that DoT does not have any policy basis to oppose the move.

Prior to this, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had suggested imposing a fee of Rs 45.71 billion on operators holding spectrum beyond 6.2 MHz.

Vodafone feels that there is no provision under the licence for imposing a one-time fee. According to the company, in 2007, TRAI had said that charging for existing allocations (beyond 6.2 MHz) may not be legally feasible.