Broadband India Forum (BIF) has asked TRAI to dismiss demands for auctioning of spectrum for satellite, reaffirming the clarity of the Indian Telecommunications Act, 2023.
Several stakeholders have contacted the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), urging a revision of its Consultation Paper on Spectrum for Satellite-Based Services to mandate auctioning of spectrum for satellite communications.
Allegations of Confusion and Misinterpretation
The stakeholders’ push for auctioning satellite spectrum has been characterized by BIF as a deliberate attempt to confuse the regulatory landscape and contradict the legislative intent of the Telecommunications Act. Section 4(4) of the Act explicitly mandates that the allocation of satellite spectrum be conducted through an administrative process, a decision rooted in public interest.
BIF asserts that the call for auctioning contradicts the Act’s clear provisions and undermines established policy. “The law is crystal clear,” a spokesperson noted, adding that any amendments to the spectrum assignment methods are intended to enhance public connectivity, particularly for underserved areas.
Questioning the ‘Level Playing Field’ Argument
BIF has criticized the notion of a ‘level playing field’ between satellite-based and terrestrial communications, deeming it fundamentally flawed.
BIF has emphasized that the disparities between satellite and terrestrial services are significant and inherent. Thus, applying a level playing field in this context is erroneous and contradicts principles upheld by the Supreme Court in previous rulings.
A Call for Continued Support of Digital Connectivity
BIF is advocating for the importance of maintaining the current regulatory framework to foster growth, innovation, and inclusivity in digital connectivity across India. The forum believes that the nascent satellite communications sector has the potential to significantly enhance connectivity, particularly in underrepresented regions.
TV Ramachandran, President of BIF, expressed concern over the misinformation circulating around the regulatory process, stating, “As India moves towards reaping the benefits of a vibrant satellite communications sector, it is imperative to expose false narratives that subvert the due process of regulation and law.”
“The Telecommunications Act, 2023, clearly stipulates an administrative assignment of spectrum for Satcom services. Any attempts to disregard the law and undermine this process is a disservice to the larger public interest,” Ramachandran said.