SC 'shut shop' order directly binding on telcos: DoT source

On SSTL, the DoT source said "from initial observation, it seems so (SSTL will have to close operations). There official statement is not binding on government unless court tells us something or there lawyer gives us in writing."

Government has also proposed before Supreme Court that will issue temporary licences for quashed permits who are interested to participate in March 2013 auction but the DoT source said the department will have to take legal opinion on the apex court's order to see if there is any scope to issue such licences.

"There is no change of intention but whether SC order permits it , will be known after legal opinion," the source said.

Following the court order, government may increase quantum of spectrum in four circles in 1800 MHz band for the upcoming auction to comply with Supreme Court order which directed it auction entire 2G spectrum freed through licences cancelled by it.

"DoT may increase quantum of spectrum in upcoming auction in Rajasthan and Karnataka for 1800 MHz to include spectrum that was vacated by licence cancellation. For rest of 18 circles it may go for third round of auction to sell rest of spectrum vacated through licence cancellation," sources said.

The government has announced it will auction 15 megahertz of airwaves each in Delhi and Mumbai in 1800 Mhz band, currently used for 2G GSM services, where as 4.4 Mhz and 13.2 Mhz of spectrum was released through quashed permits.

The government, sources said, does not expect significant realisation from sale

... contd.