TDSAT ruling a blow to MTNL

In a setback to state-run Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited, telecom dispute settlement tribunal TDSAT on Monday refused to grant a stay, through an nterim order, on implementation of the new Access Deficit Charge regime from February 1.

However, TDSAT asked Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to file its reply within two weeks. The matter would now be heard on February 24.

TDSAT also said it had the jurisdiction to adjudicate on regulations of telecom regulator TRAI.

The new levy regime could result in a loss of about Rs 550 crore (Rs 5.5 billion) to MTNL annually.