Hutch-Essar: Cash in or hold? Ruias get 5-6 wks

Arun Sarin, CEO, Vodafone, today said the company will be making the same offer to the Essar Group, which holds 33% stake in Hutch-Essar, as made to Hutchison International (HTIL).

"It is a time-bound offer.  We will know within 5-6 weeks whether Essar is our long-term partner," he said.

Sarin added that after paying a premium for control, they would also ensure that Essar's rights because of their 33% holding in the company will also be respected.