Govt to seek legal advice on Supreme Court’s limited AGR relief for Vodafone Idea

Govt to seek legal advice on Supreme Court’s limited AGR relief for Vodafone Idea

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26 Aug, 2025 12:21

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The government will seek legal advice on the Supreme Court order that allows it to reconsider the adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues — a relief that applies only to Vodafone Idea Ltd and is limited to additional AGR demands raised up to FY2016-17.

“The government is yet to obtain legal advice, and as in any such matter, we will have to consult our legal experts before taking further steps,” an official told Moneycontrol on condition of anonymity.

According to the order, the ruling pertains exclusively to Vodafone Idea and covers only the additional AGR dues up to FY2016-17, considering the “peculiar facts and circumstances” of the case, including the Union government’s 49% equity stake in the company.

“It is further to be noted that the prayer in the petition itself restricts its claim only to the additional AGR demand raised by the respondent for the period up to the Financial Year 2016-17,” the Bench led by Chief Justice B. R. Gavai said in its October 27 order, a copy of which was reviewed by Moneycontrol.

“We further clarify that this order is passed only with regard to the petitioner—Vodafone Idea Ltd.—taking into consideration the peculiar facts and circumstances of the case as put up by the Union of India,” the order added.

Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, on October 29, said the government will first assess the implications of the ruling before making any policy decisions. “We will need to study the order to understand its implications and will wait for Vodafone Idea to apply for seeking relief,” he said.

Officials said the Centre will decide on potential relief measures for Vodafone Idea only after examining the full order. “The finer details of the judgment will guide us on the course of action for any possible relief,” a senior government official noted, adding that the written order is still awaited.

Another official said Vodafone Idea will have to formally outline the relief it is seeking once the court issues its directive. “The extent of any relief will depend on internal deliberations and the court’s final wording,” the official added.

The Supreme Court, meanwhile, highlighted that the government holds a 49% stake in Vodafone Idea and that the operator serves nearly 20 crore subscribers — making the case one of significant public interest.