COAI Raises Concerns Over Trai's Service Authorisation Framework

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has raised concerns over the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (Trai) recent recommendations on the service authorisations framework. COAI stresses the need to retain the contractual nature of telecom licences for regulatory certainty and investor protection. Additionally, COAI has highlighted the exclusion of OTT communication services and called for financial reforms.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) is voicing its concerns over recent recommendations by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) regarding the framework for service authorisations. COAI insists that the contractual nature of current telecom licences should be preserved to ensure regulatory certainty and protect long-term investors.

The telecom association, which includes major members such as Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, also expressed worries about the exclusion of Over-The-Top (OTT) communication services under the new authorisation framework. COAI argues that this omission creates an uneven competitive landscape, as traditional Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) continue to face heavy compliance and security requirements.

COAI further noted that the recommendations failed to address significant concerns regarding financial reforms and easing industry dues. COAI has been advocating for a reduction in licence fees and the elimination of various financial guarantees to alleviate the burden on the telecom industry.

(With inputs from agencies.)