Vodafone Idea may survive after all. The Department of Telecom has moved a proposal under which dues related to Adjusted Gross Revenue can be paid over 20 years. DoT has filed an affidavit with the Supreme Court seeking approval for the proposal.
Arguing in favour of a relief package, DoT said that a shut down by any operator at this point would have huge negative impact on the banking sector and adversely impact the quality of services in the telecom sector.
DoT has said that if an operator stops services then there could be a massive demand on other surviving operators' network which may impact quality of services. The existing mobile number portability systems may also not be equipped to manage millions of subscribers shifting out of Vodafone Idea’s network.
DoT has therefore proposed that AGR dues can be paid over 20 years. Interest, penalties on the dues amount will also have to be paid.