DoT moves SC, seeks relief for telcos on AGR dues

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking modification of the latter’s October 24, 2019, order relating to payment of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues by the operators. In its petition, DoT has urged the apex court that the telecom operators be allowed to pay their dues in a staggered manner over a 20-year period using a discounted rate of 8% interest. However, it has said the operators not be charged penalty, interest and penalty on interest beyond the date of the judgment. This way the net present value of the due amount will be protected.