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Unverified subscribers: mobile operators warned

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: Union Communications and Information Technology Minister Dayanidhi Maran on Wednesday said mobile operators who had failed to complete the verification process of their subscribers by March 31, 2007 would have to pay penalty.

"The verification process was very important from the security point of view and telecom operators are likely to pay Rs.1,000 for each unverified subscriber," Mr. Maran said.

"The mobile subscriber base is expanding fast and we need to keep the verification process on track to maintain national security. There are clear directions from the Union Home Ministry on the issue and we are not going to take any chances. We have been discussing [penalty measures] and a decision on it will be taken soon."

Expressing satisfaction over the verification process, he said the subscribers were also aware of the inherent dangers of unverified mobile numbers.

He denied that there was any negative impact of the process on the growth momentum. "In fact, subscribers whose phones were disconnected immediately deposited their documents to get their mobile phone connections restored."

As per a recent sample survey conducted by the Department of Telecommunications, Hutch and Reliance led the way with 93 per cent verification rate. They were followed by Bharti (90 per cent), BSNL (87 per cent) and Tata (73 per cent).

However, Spice (53 per cent) and other small players were not up to the mark. Asked about the survey findings, Mr. Maran refused to comment.

The verification process began last year after the Department of Telecommunications issued instructions to all mobile and unified access service providers to carry out 100 per cent verification of identity proof of existing subscribers by March 31, 2007.

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