TDSAT asks telecom PSUs to file their replies by Aug 26

The telecom tribunal TDSAT has directed the state-controlled telecom firms BSNL and MTNL to submit their reply on the ongoing crossover spectrum matter by next week.    

 After finding that both PSUs have not filed their counter affidavits, the tribunal has suo motto listed the case today and directed their counsel to file their replies by August 26.     

Meanwhile, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) also directed the GSM lobby COAI, which is the main petitioner in this case, to file its rejoinder over PSU's reply.     

Justifying its decision to list the case for hearing, TDSAT Chairman Justice Arun Kumar said,"Yesterday it was noticed that Respondent no 6 (BSNL) and 7 (MTNL) had not filed their counter affidavit. This is an order to avoid any further delay in the final hearing," the bench said.     

Other telecom companies including RCom, TTSL have already filed their replies on the matter.     

The tribunal clearly indicated that they do not want any further adjournment in this much delayed case on account of non-submission on any document.     

In this case, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) is insisting for an early hearing on the pretext that any delay would cost them dearly.     

COAI has filed petition last October, challenging the new telecom policy which had approved allotment of GSM spectrum to their rival CDMA operators RCom and Tata Teleservices under cross-over technology regime.     

DoT had on March 20, 2008 approved BSNL for usage of dual technology spectrum in 18 service areas along with MTNL on April, 7 for Delhi and Mumbai circles.     

The tribunal has listed the matter on September 4 for hearing this matter.