New Delhi, Sept 04: Disfavouring any amendment in the basic licenses as recommended by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, the Communications and IT Minister Arun Shourie today said such a move would open a pandora's box of litigations. "Though the government is yet to take a final view on TRAI's recommendation... My apprehension is that once you amend license condition, it can open a box of further litigations," Shourie said on the sidelines of the India-Asean summit organised jointly by CII and Ficci.

TRAI, last month had written to the Department of Telecom (DoT) to clarify/amend the basic telecom licenses to restrict roaming type service being offered by WLL service providers.

Shourie said that a demand like amending the license should not be made by the industry. "Everyone should see the consequences of such a move... Will it not lead to litigations," he added.

Shourie, however, said that government and TRAI have begun independent exercises to work out details of various aspects, as recommended by TDSAT, in order to create a level playing field for cellular and WLL players.

"Both sides (cellular and basic operators) come to me and quote selected lines of TDSAT's recent judgement on the WLL controversy. They must know that I as well as TRAI have read the full judgement," he said.

Stating that he has made a detailed presentation to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Finance Minister and principle secretary to Prime Minister on the work in progress, Shourie pointed out that government had a clear view on "what it is to do".
Bureau Report