Telcos Raise OTT Licensing Concerns in Meeting with Minister Scindia

Telecom operators expressed concerns in a recent meeting with Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia over the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (Trai) exclusion of over-the-top (OTT) apps like WhatsApp and Telegram from new licensing rules. According to sources, key industry leaders from Reliance Jio, Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, and BSNL were present to discuss pressing issues, including adjusted gross revenue (AGR) payments and OTT regulation.

Telecom companies have long advocated for OTT messaging and calling apps to be brought under telecom licensing regulations, arguing that these platforms offer similar services to traditional telecom operators. However, Trai’s recommendations under the Telecommunications Act 2023 did not include such apps.

In addition, both Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel raised concerns about the significant financial impact of their AGR liabilities, with Vodafone Idea’s debt standing at ₹70,320 crore and Bharti Airtel’s at ₹21,500 crore. The operators emphasized the need for regulatory support to address these financial challenges.

Key Highlights:

1. OTT Regulation Exclusion: Telecom operators raised concerns about Trai’s decision to exclude messaging and calling OTT apps from the new telecom licensing rules.
2. AGR Liabilities Discussed: Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel highlighted the financial strain due to adjusted gross revenue payments, seeking government intervention.
3. Industry Leaders Meet: Key figures from Jio, Vodafone Idea, Airtel, and BSNL attended the meeting with Minister Scindia, followed by discussions with telecom equipment manufacturers.