Delay release of 3G spectrum: COAI

In a reversal of its earlier stance on 3G, the Cellular Operators' Association of India has told Telecom Secretary D S Mathur that the release of 3G spectrum should be delayed till it is available for all operators.

In a letter, Director General of COAI, T V Ramachandran said: "It may be desirable to wait till adequate 3G spectrum is available for all existing mobile operators. Efforts may be made to get more spectrum vacated by defence services in the short term and then it should be awarded to all operators at a modest one-time fee, sufficient to cover the costs of vacation and refarming (about Rs 1,800 crore)."

The COAI also said "auction should be avoided at all costs" as it would be discriminatory in nature.