AGR setback for Vodafone Idea, Airtel, Tata Teleservices: SC calls petition 'misconceived'

SC dismissed petitions by telcos seeking AGR relief

The Supreme Court refused to extend any AGR relief to Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel and Tata Teleservices on Monday calling the petition "misconceived".

The telcos had petitioned the top court seeking relief on the AGR dues comprising interest , penalty and interest on penalty.

"We are really shocked by these petitions which have come before us. It is not expected of a multinational company. We will dismiss it," the bench told senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Vodafone Idea.

The ruling effectively closes any legal option that the telcos have and is a big setback especially for Vodafone Idea as it reels under the burden of AGR dues.

According to their petitions, Bharti Airtel and Bharti Hexacom sought waiver of Rs 34,745 crore in adjusted gross revenue-related dues, while Vodafone Idea wanted a waiver of Rs 45,457 crore in dues.

Rohatgi previously said the survival of the petitioner firm was crucial for maintaining competition in the telecom sector.

Now the Centre holds a 49% stake in the company following a recent equity conversion of interest dues, he had added.