COAI and AUSPI have objected to a move to grant Rs 1800 crore to BSNL from the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF).

The move to grant such an amount to BSNL was considered by DoT in lieu of abolition of  access deficit charges.

Private operators have objected to the Government’s proposal to give about Rs 1,800 crore to Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd from the Universal Services Obligation Fund.

 “We are, therefore, now taken aback that support from this USO Fund, which has been created by contributions from the entire industry, is being provided to only one operator. This is clearly against the principle of level playing field.” said COAI and AUSPI in a letter to DoT terming the move as anti-competitive.