Stop tariff plans with misleading titles: Trai

Operators asked to stop splitting monthly fixed charges.

The telecom regulator today directed all operators to stop tariff plans with misleading titles. It has also asked them to be more transparent by putting all monthly fixed recurring charges under one sub-head.

"The direction has come about because tariff plans with misleading titles like 'zero rental' have flooded the market," the telecom regulatory authority of India (Trai) said.

The directive says if the title of a plan suggests zero monthly fixed charges, it must not have any mandatory fixed charge that is not linked to usage.

Also, titles which suggest unlimited usage will be treated as misleading, if they restrict usage in any manner. The regulator's directive implies that operators will have to end the practice of splitting monthly fixed charges.

"Tariff plans offered in the market today have monthly fixed charges levied under different sub-heads. When all fixed charges are clubbed under one head, it will be easier for a subscriber to choose from plans available in the market," Trai added.

Take that call

Titles suggesting unlimited usage will be treated as misleading, if they restrict usage in any manner

A zero monthly fixed charge plan must not have any mandatory fixed charge that is not linked to usage