Telecom Operators Seek Regulation of OTT Apps
They argue that since OTT apps provide similar services to traditional telecom operators, they should be regulated similarly.
Telecom companies such as Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, and BSNL are urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to regulate messaging and calling apps like WhatsApp and Telegram under telecom licences.
In a meeting with Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, telecom regulators expressed concerns over Trai's decision to exclude these over-the-top (OTT) apps from new licensing recommendations.
They argue that since OTT apps provide similar services to traditional telecom operators, they should be regulated similarly.
The meeting also addressed adjusted gross revenue (AGR) payments, with Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel underscoring their significant liabilities.
The Supreme Court recently rejected Vodafone Idea's plea regarding its ₹70,320 crore AGR debt, while Bharti Airtel faces about ₹21,500 crore.
Moreover, these operators have also discussed the importance of stricter regulations to overcome unsolicited commercial calls and messages.
After this meeting, Scindia also engaged with telecom equipment manufacturers.