BSNL plans to extend validity of 4G tender for telecom equipment to May 25

State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) is exploring the possibility of extending the validity of its 4G tender for telecom equipment, which has raked up a controversy, to May 25.

The tender floated on March 23 had a month’s validity, and one reason for the extension is the lacklustre response. More importantly, more time is required for bidders as the tender is now being scrutinised by the Ministry of Commerce, following allegations that it favours multinational companies, a source close to the development told BusinessLine.

However, certain reports stated that the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has asked the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to put on hold the tender. A final decision on this is not yet taken, the source added.