The Minister dismissed allegations of corruption in allotment of 2G spectrum in the Lok Sabha. “Since 1999, 2G spectrum was never auctioned... even in the latest report of TRAI it did not recommend auction route to maintain level playing field between two sets of operators — (pre-2008 and post-2008),” Raja said in the House during Question Hour.
AIADMK member M Thambidurai alleged that in view of the nearly Rs 70,000 crore collection from auctioning of 3G spectrum, it is clear that the exchequer has lost Rs 1 lakh crore by giving 2G spectrum at throw away prices in 2008.
Raja also said that 3G spectrum auctioned process was completed on May 19,2010.
Two telecom public sector undertakings — BSNL and MTNL — were allotted 3G spectrum in advance on condition that they would pay equal to highest bid amount.
Raja also said that the 3G spectrum would be distributed to all successful bidders on September 1 for launching services on commercial basis.
Published 09 August 2010, 17:36 IST