DoT may issue notices to Tata Teleservices, Aircel on 3G roaming pacts

New Delhi: The Department of Telecom is considering issuing fresh show-cause notices to private operators Tata Teleservices and Aircel for entering into alleged illegal 3G spectrum roaming pacts allowing each other to access areas where they did not hold permits.

Earlier in December 2011, the DoT had issued notices to these two companies directing them to stop 3G roaming agreements immediately.

The fresh show-cause notices to Tata Teleservices and Aircel will be issued after the verification of replies received from these two for December 2011 notices, official sources said.

“After decision on the ’taker’ notices about the launch of service, further course of action in respect of ‘giver’ notices these two companies may be finalised,” sources said.

No immediate comments could be received from Aircel and Tata Teleservices on the matter.

Sources said DoT has asked its Telecom Enforcement, Resource and Monitoring cell to ascertain the facts of the reply given by the two companies.

TTSL was issued notice for alleged violation of norms in 10 service areas, while Aircel was issued show cause notice for six service areas.

Tata Teleservices in response to the notice said it was not providing 3G services under intra-circle roaming agreement and only the agreement was signed, sources said.

Aircel had said the company started 3G services on pilot basis and they have not launched services commercially under the agreement, they added.

Other big players such as Idea Cellular, Vodafone and Airtel has also received similar notices on 3G roaming agreements.

These three players have challenged DoT’s order on 3G pacts and the matter is sub-judice.

PTI