Stand-off over 3G

The 3G controversy could take a new turn. The issue has already been referred to the Attorney General by DoT for a legal opinion on whether foreign companies, which don’t have telecom licences in India, can bid for 3G. Now, the Attorney General is believed to be of the opinion that the a Group of Ministers (GoM) should be set up to take a final call on the controversy.

This will be the second time that a telecom-related issue has been referred to GoM by the UPA government and could result in a delay in the 3G auction process. Right now, DoTand TRAI have conflicting stands on the matter. While DoT wants the auction to be open to all players, TRAI wants only the existing players to be involved in the process.

—Rishi Joshi