‘Govt. must act to relieve telecom stress’

Bharti’s Mittal says authorities must ensure survival of at least three operators

Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Mittal on Thursday said the telecom industry was under severe stress and added that the onus was on the government to ensure that at least three operators survived. Mr. Mittal’s remarks assume significance amid reports that cash-strapped Vodafone Idea, which posted a loss of about ₹7,000 crore in the March quarter, has sought a moratorium on the payment of its dues to the telecom department. “To say the telecom industry is in a bit of trouble is actually an understatement,” Mr. Mittal said. “It is in tremendous amount of stress. I hope the Government, the authorities and the telecom department, all focus on this issue and ensure India's digital dream remains intact through the provision of at least three operators.”