Broadband India Forum Challenges Jio's Call for Revised Satcom Spectrum Rules

Broadband India Forum opposed Reliance Jio's request for revising consultation rules on Satcom spectrum allocation. The debate surrounds ensuring competitive fairness between satellite and terrestrial services. Broadband India Forum argues the current administrative allocation aligns with the Telecommunications Act 2023, amidst differing views on auction-based allocation.

The Broadband India Forum (BIF) has firmly opposed Reliance Jio's request for a revised consultation paper on the allocation of spectrum for satellite communication. Jio argues that the current paper by TRAI ignores essential aspects of fairness between satellite and terrestrial services.

BIF contends that Jio's demand for a 'level playing field' misunderstands both the technology and the law, calling for auctioning spectrum as a misunderstanding of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. This act mandates administrative allocation for certain services, a stance supported by BIF members, including OneWeb and Viasat.

As TRAI explores spectrum allocation methodology and pricing, the outcome will influence satellite broadband provision by companies like Starlink and OneWeb. Meanwhile, Jio and Vodafone Idea have voiced opposition to non-auctioned spectrum allocation, citing concerns about competitive fairness and legal vulnerabilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)