"We are against any abnormal charges for 3G spectrum. It should be free or at best could be charged normally like the current spectrum charges of 2-6 per cent. 3G may be an advanced service for data but buying spectrum for such services at hefty entry fee is certainly not worth it", A K Sinha, chief managing director, BSNL said.
Sinha said focus should be on the stringent conditions laid on the efficient use of 3G spectrum and not on charging hefty entry fee which could have a spiraling effect on the overall telecom service cost.
He added that with 3G, operators could offer many advanced services on data and that would push up traffic. The telecom PSU is currently in the process of rolling out its 3G network, which could be started by the year-end.
Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata has written to Telecom Minister Dayanidhi Maran opposing allocation of spectrum for third generation services free of cost and proposed a one-time entry licence fee of Rs 1500 crore (Rs 150 billion). Bharti group CMD Sunil Mittal has vehemently opposed entry fee on 3G spectrum.
Even though the department of telecom is yet to decide on this issue and may seek response from stakeholders before any decision, Maran had earlier said, "I believe the revolution in Indian telecom has taken place because of low tariffs. Any decision the government would take would be keeping in mind the low tariffs. We should not bring the next licence raj".