Broadband India

Bring Transparency on Call / SMS Tariffs on Black Out Days – TRAI Order

Unlike SEBI the lethargic and potentially highly corrupt Regulator of Securities market in India, TRAI – The Telecom Regulator is doing a commendable Job. Just minutes ago, TRAI has passed an order applicable to all Wireless / Mobile Operators in India to bring transparency on Voice Call, SMS and Data Tariffs on Black Out Days.

What are Black Out Days in Indian Mobile?
These are the days when your discounted Calls / SMS added by means of Special Tariff Voucher / STV are not valid and your call / SMS rates are synchronized with your Regular Plan rates.

TRAI Order States as below,

• The charges for calls or SMSs on ‘blackout’ days shall not exceed the rate in the tariff plan in which the consumer is enrolled;
• Consumers shall be given SMS, not earlier than seventy two hours and not later than twenty four hours prior to the commencement of the ‘blackout’ day, the occasion and date of ‘blackout’ day and the rate applicable for calls and SMSs on such ‘blackout’ days; and
• List of blackout days applicable for the calendar year shall be displayed on the website of service providers, before start of every calendar year and shall be published, service area wise, along with the tariff plans of the service provider, every six months.

Hopefully, operators will comply with the new regulations before the commencement of Holiday Season.