Mobile Number Portability has not really set the stage on fire – Most telecom operators have come out and said that MNP has not affected their business much, however, it looks like there may a reason why the MNP numbers are not really high. Indian Telecom Operators have been rejecting Mobile Number Portability requests from subscribers on flimsy grounds !
Many users have complained to TRAI that their MNP requests are not being entertained by their service providers for reasons like subscriber is having a premium number or for having an outstanding amount on the bill, which sometimes is less than a rupee.
Taking note of user complaints, TRAI has come out with a directive for Telecom Operators which lays down clear basis, only on which a telecom operator is allowed to reject MNP requests. Other than that all other MNP requests will have to fulfilled.
Reasons why a Telecom Operator can reject MNP requests:
According to the Point number 7 in the directive, Telcos can reject MNP requests only under following circumstances:
- Bundled handset offer with a written agreement having an exit clause
- Corporate connection with a contractual agreement having an exit clause
- Any contractual agreement with a retail customer against any service / premium number with an “exit clause”
- The prepaid vanity numbers having an exit clause should come under the contractual obligation category of rejections provided that this aspect has been communicated to the customer prior to his porting and there was a contractual agreement with an exit clause.
Point number 8 of the directive also states that MNP requests cannot be rejected by Telecom Operator is the outstanding bill of customer is less than a rupee. TRAI has specially been severe on this particular point and has mentioned the following in Point no. 11
TRAI is of the opinion that rejection of porting request for small amounts such as Rs. 0.13, R. 0.70 or Rs 1.50 etc is against the spirit of regulations especially because the service provider has liberty to adjust the said outstanding amount against the next bill.
So, if you are thinking of changing your service providers, ensure that you are not under any of four contractual obligations given above.
Let us know what are the other reasons why Telecom Operator has rejected your porting request!