Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd has received security clearance to start 4G technology-based broadband services in six circles, but with riders.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), while giving its approval, has asked the company to plug gaps in the lawful monitoring requirements and interception of data services, including Yahoo and Gmail.
The security go-ahead is the last major clearance before company can start services.
The DoT has granted RJio permission to start data services in Kolkata, Karnataka, Bihar, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. The operator’s demonstration of Lawful Intercept and Monitoring (LIM) system in these circles was found to be adequate, though there were some concerns, sources close to the development told
For example, the security agencies were unable to read, view or listen to data flowing through encrypted services and proprietary protocols such as Yahoo Mail and Gmail. Before commercial launch, the DoT wants RJio to facilitate pushing of legally intercepted traffic to security agencies in readable, printable and audible formats (depending on the type of data). Further, it has asked the company to set up servers on its premises.
In addition, the company has been told to install systems that would enable security agencies to intercept e-mails, track chat IDs, IP (Internet protocol) addresses and voice over Internet protocol calling of specific users.
The DoT also wants to carry out certain tests after the launch to ensure the proper interception and delivery capacity of the monitoring system, according to the sources.
Earlier, the DoT had assigned signalling point codes to RJio, a move that would enable the company provide international and national long-distance services.
Mumbai-based RJio had won spectrum in the 1800 MHz spectrum across 14 circles in the last round of auctions. It also has airwaves in the 2300 MHz in 22 circles.
The company had taken licence in 2010 and has to complete the rollout obligation by 2015.