As per the report that appeared in the “Business Standard”,
on 23-10-2012, the EGoM (Empowered Group of Ministers agreed in principle for
the rescue of BSNL and MTNL. BSNL and MTNL have to pay a minimum of Rs 6250
crore and Rs 4240 crore for the spectrum they are holding beyond 4.4. MHz. They
have to pay one third of this amount soon, in November/December and the
remaining amount in monthly in annual instalments. The private operators also
have to pay for the spectrum they are holding beyond 4.4. MHz, but their
amounts will be less. BSNL and MTNL have sought for exemption from this payment
since they are in losses and cannot pay the amount and at the same time, the
spectrum they are holding beyond 4.4 MHz has to be continued for serving the subscribers.
The EGoM has agreed for this in principle , but with the
condition that there should not be any cash outgo for the Government for this
purpose. But how is it possible? It is said that once the Cabinet approves for
the rescue in principle, it will be worked out subsequently. It appears that
the Government will not exempt BSNL from the payment directly, since any such
exemption will be opposed by the Private operators. Then what can be done?
Whether it means anypayment due to be made by the Government to BSNL will be
adjusted against this amount? The BSNL has returnedback the BWA spectrum
purchased by it for Rs 8500 crore. The Government has to refund this. It is not
done so far. Whether rescue means Government adjusting this money to be paid by
it to BSNL against the amount to be paid by BSNL for the excess spectrum? This
is not rescuing since BSNL actually pays
the money in such case to the Government from the money due to it from the
Government. What can be the other options? It will be nothing but an attack on
BSNL in one or another form.
Therefore unless the Government clearly gives exemption to
BSNL from this payment, there will be no real rescue for BSNL.
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