Regulator TRAI on Thursday directed all telecom service suppliers to make sure that solely tariffs which might be reported to it are provided by their channels, distributors or retailers, because it sought to crackdown on reductions allegedly being doled out by some channel companions to lure clients from different networks. With this, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has affixed the accountability of guaranteeing compliance of regulatory provisions and tips squarely with the operators, for such instances. 

In its route, TRAI directed all telecom service suppliers (TSPs) to make sure “with immediate effect” that solely the tariffs reported to the regulator are provided by their channel companions, distributors, retailers or third-party apps. It additionally mentioned asserted that the accountability and accountability of guaranteeing compliance of TRAI tips and provision will stay with the telecom service suppliers, the place the operators’ identify or model is used for advertising or promoting merchandise. 

The route got here after TRAI obtained complaints by telecom service suppliers towards one another, the place allegations had been levelled about cellular quantity portability (MNP)-specific tariff providing being made by rival companies. While the allegations of such “discriminatory MNP specific tariff offers” had been denied by every of the operators. In some instances, it was acknowledged by a couple of telcos that their channel companions could have given some MNP particular advantages to the shoppers on their very own with out consent or authorisation from the gamers themselves.

TRAI famous that channel companions and distributors are “non licensed entities” appointed by telecom operators for the aim of providing providers. It additionally made it clear that “it remains the responsibility of TSPs to adhere to the various regulatory provisions/guidelines in respect of tariff offerings issued from time to time”.

(PTI)