The Peoples’ Commission on Public Sector and Services (PCPSPS) has expressed concern over the Central government’s “misguided” approach toward public sector telecom companies, BSNL and MTNL, accusing it of weakening them “financially, technically, and organizationally.” The commission, comprising renowned academics, jurists, former administrators, trade unionists, and social activists, has called for a comprehensive revival plan for these companies in the national interest.
The PCPSPS has also criticized the government for enabling private telecom operators to exploit millions of unsuspecting customers, alleging “dubious methods” in granting undue benefits to private players. It further warned that such practices promote a monopolistic environment in the telecom sector, undermining fair competition.
Ahead of the Union Budget, the commission has urged the government to provide direct budgetary support to public sector enterprises like BSNL and MTNL. This support, it argues, is essential for implementing a holistic revival plan that would make these companies financially and technically robust enough to compete with private operators across all spectrum categories.
Additionally, the PCPSPS has demanded the revocation of plans to monetize BSNL and MTNL’s assets, such as land and telecom towers, as well as the cancellation of existing monetization agreements with private competitors. It emphasized that preserving these assets is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of public sector telecom enterprises.
