Airtel, Vodafone, Idea threaten to exit 3G

Major telecom firms Airtel, Vodafone and Idea have threatened to exit 3G services if the government does not approve their pact to provide intra-circle roaming.

Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Mittal, Idea Cellular Chairman Kumar Birla and Vodafone CEO Vittorio Colao have written a joint letter to the Prime Minister.
They want a refund of the 3G spectrum payments if intra-circle roaming is not allowed.
The letter asks for a refund of the auction payment with interest as well as compensation for all capital investments made in 3G. Also read: 2G case trial to be shifted to Tihar Jail 'court' premises
The roaming pact between the three companies allowed them to provide 3G services in circles where they do not hold a licence.
Telecom watchdog TRAI said this is a violation of the terms of the licence with serious financial implications for the government. The letter asks the Prime Minister to intervene in the matter.