Click to play videoNew Delhi: Network 18's Shereen Bhan spoke to telecom minister A Raja on the spectrum issue. This is what he had to say. Read on...
Shereen Bhan: In the 3G auction, we find that the process for bidding will kickstart around December 8. It will be in two phases and it will be completed around the first week of February. Is that right sir?
A Raja: Yes, even before that. We expect that around the end of January, subject to 15 days up and down, it will be completed.
Shereen Bhan: Tata Teleservices has written a letter to the DOT saying that there should be no three-year lock in period as is being reported that your ministry is considering in terms of investors divesting their holdings.
A Raja: No it is being considered in the telecom commission. It has been referred for comments to the Finance Ministry, Law Ministry and the Corporate Office Ministry. But, whatever be the TRAI recommendations, it is that background in which we will re-look the issue.
Shereen Bhan: What about FIPB approvals for companies like Unitech, which have gone ahead and done deals?
A Raja: It will have its own route.
Shereen Bhan: Are you envisaging any problems because of the Pakistan angle?
A Raja: I didn't see any problems but it is the lookout of the Finance and Home Ministries.
Shereen Bhan: So you don't expect any trouble as far as FIPB clearance is concerned?
A Raja: No, I am not at all into the issue. As far as the Telecom Ministry is concerned, we have no role in the security angle. If any letter comes from the Finance Ministry or the Home Ministry saying this operator should not be permitted to go for FIPB clearance, then we will abide by the directions given to us by them.
(For updates you can share with your friends, follow IBNLive on Facebook, Twitter and Google+)
 |
 |
 |
|
displayed with permission. Use of the CNN name and/or logo on or as part of CNN-IBN does not derogate from the intellectual property rights of Cable News Network in respect of them.