Telcos Must Publish Tariff Plans In Papers: TRAI | TechTree.com

Telcos Must Publish Tariff Plans In Papers: TRAI

Also specifies additional steps to be followed for protecting consumer interests.

 

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) continues to rule with an iron fist. It has now told telecom operators to publish their tariff plans in newspapers, after receiving complaints from consumers about the "alleged lack of transparency and resultant confusion for subscribers due to the multiplicity of tariff plans". The rates must be displayed in at least one regional and one English publication, and in a format specified by TRAI for easy comparison, at least once every six months. Formats for pre-paid and billed plans will have to be different and distinguishable from each other. In addition, telcos will have to display the latest tariff details on their website at all times. Finally, the pricing schedule will also have to be updated at point-of-sale locations on a quarterly basis at the very least. The deadline to adhere to these rules has been set to 3rd February.

In another move, the telecom regulatory body has decided to streamline and standardise the recharge vouchers offered by providers. A colour code will have to be followed by all subscribers to distinguish between different top-up types. Details about plans, MRPs, and net monetary value will also have to be clearly mentioned on each voucher, in a font size not less than eight points.

Moreover, operators will also have to ensure that they do not adopt unfair practices, such as activating value-added services, without the subscriber's consent. Companies are required to inform customers about the service charges, validity period, and procedure for unsubscribing before activating their numbers.

This stand taken by TRAI on behalf of all mobile subscribers is a very welcome change, considering the apathy we have experienced in the past. What do you think?


TAGS: Telecom, Government, Jayesh

 
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