The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will examine complaints raised by Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio against Vodafone Idea over alleged practices aimed at encouraging customers to switch their mobile connections to its network.

TRAI Chairman AK Lahoti confirmed that the regulator has received representations from telecom operators and will examine the concerns raised. The complaints relate to practices surrounding mobile number portability (MNP).

Allegations Over Porting-Linked Offers

One of the key complaints concerns alleged promotional campaigns by Vodafone Idea that offered tariff benefits specifically to customers porting their mobile numbers to its network.

Airtel and Jio have argued that preferential or differential benefits linked specifically to porting can amount to an inducement for customers to leave their existing operator.

One operator has reportedly asked TRAI to direct Vodafone Idea to stop such promotional communications and submit a compliance report confirming that related advertisements, campaigns and sales practices have been withdrawn.

Concerns Also Involve Mobile Number Portability

The dispute extends beyond promotional offers. Airtel and Jio have also raised concerns about practices allegedly making it more difficult for some Vodafone Idea customers to port their numbers to another operator.

The process requires customers to obtain a Unique Porting Code (UPC), which is generated through an SMS request. Concerns have been raised over access to the SMS facility needed to initiate the porting process on certain plans.

Mobile number portability allows customers to change telecom operators while retaining their existing mobile number.

Vodafone Idea Denies Any Wrongdoing

Vodafone Idea has rejected allegations that it is violating telecom regulations.

The company has maintained that it believes in fair competition and the strength of its products and services, adding that it conducts its business in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Airtel and Jio were not immediately available for comment on the latest development.

TRAI Yet to Decide Next Steps

Lahoti has not specified whether TRAI will call all three telecom operators for a detailed discussion or seek additional information before proceeding.

The regulator’s examination is therefore at an early stage. TRAI will need to assess the representations and evidence submitted by the operators before determining whether any regulatory action is required.

The dispute comes as India’s telecom market remains concentrated around Airtel, Jio and Vodafone Idea, making customer acquisition and retention increasingly important for all three operators.

Summary

TRAI will examine complaints from Airtel and Jio alleging that Vodafone Idea used porting-linked tariff benefits and other practices to attract customers from rival networks. Vodafone Idea has denied violating regulations. TRAI has not yet announced whether it will initiate a formal investigation or what action, if any, could follow.