Reportedly, the BTRC has been allowing private telecom operator Banglaphone to dodge crores of taka in legal government fees, while also allegedly bestowing irregular favours to the company.
Comments from high-ranking BTRC officials over the issue have showed a complete and utter lack of knowledge about the issue, despite documentation being available revealing clear discrepancies over certain facts. This is not an acceptable reaction from a government-operated regulator.
BTRC has had a rather checkered reputation in terms of revenue-collection from other telecom operators, especially in relation to ensuring consistent and regular collection of fees owed by International Gateways (IGWs).
Government concerns have led it to start making sweeping changes to its system. Earlier this year, the watchdog body rejected an application by state-owned operator Teletalk to change its 3G spectrum allocation. A fair decision, as Teletalk still owes payments arising out of the auction for 3G allocation held in September 2013.
However, new or continuing allegations of bias only work towards undermining the regulator’s image reputation, after it had made moves towards improving its effectiveness.
BTRC has a clear directive in its duties of regulating the country’s various telecom operators, to give equal treatment to both private sector companies and state-owned companies which compete directly with each other.
There is no room for either bias or inefficiency within or involving the BTRC.
It must make sure appropriate legal action is taken against all companies which fail to provide its revenues. There is no room for either bias or inefficiency for the BTRC.
