TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA ACT, 1997
(1) This Act may be called the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997."
(2) It extends to the whole of India.
(3) It shall be deemed to have come into force on the 25th day of January, 1997.
(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,—"
(a) “appointed day” means the date with effect from which the Authority is established under sub-section (1) of section 3;
1[(aa) "Appellate Tribunal" means the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal established under section 14;]
(b) “Authority” means the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India established under sub-section (1) of section 3;
(c) “Chairperson” means the Chairperson of the Authority appointed under sub-section (3) of section 3;
(d) “Fund” means the Fund constituted under sub-section (1) of section 22;
(e) “Licensee” means any person licensed under sub-section
(1) With effect from such date as the Central Government may, by notification appoint, there shall be established, for the purposes of this Act, an Authority to be called the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India."
(2) The Authority shall be a body corporate by the name aforesaid, having perpetual succession and a common seal, with power, subject to the provisions of this Act, to acquire, hold and dispose of property, both movable and immovable, and to contract, and shall, by the said name, sue or be sued.
1[(3) The Authority shall consist of a Chairperson, and not more than two whole-time members and not more than two part-time members, to be appointed by the Central Government.]
(4) The head office of the Authority shall be at New Delhi.
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The Chairperson and other members of the Authority shall be appointed by the Central Government from amongst persons who have special knowledge of, and professional experience in, telecommunication, industry, finance, accountancy, law, management or consumer affairs\:"
Provided that a person who is, or has been, in the service of Government shall not be appointed as a member unless such person has held the post of Secretary or Additional Secretary, or the post of Additional Secretary and Secretary to the Government of India or any equivalent post in the Central Government or the State Government for a period of not less than three years.]
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1. Subs. by Act 2 of 2000, sec. 5, for section 4 (w.r.e.f. 24-1-2000).
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(1) Before appointing any person as the Chairperson or member, the Central Government shall satisfy itself that the person does not have any such financial or other interest as is likely to affect prejudicially his functions as such member."
1[(2) The Chairperson and other members shall hold office for a term not exceeding three years, as the Central Government may notify in this behalf, from the date on which they enter upon their offices or until they attain the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier.
(3) On the commencement of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Act, 2000, a person appointed as Chairperson of the Authority and every other person appointed as member and holding office as such immediately before such commencement shall vacate their respective offices and such Chairperson and such other members
(1) The Chairperson shall have powers of general superintendence and directions in the conduct of the affairs of the Authority and he shall, in addition to presiding over the meetings of the Authority, exercise and discharge such powers and functions of the Authority and shall discharge such other powers and functions as may be prescribed."
(2) The Central Government may appoint one of the members to be a Vice-Chairperson of the Authority who shall exercise and discharge such powers and functions of the Chairperson as may be prescribed or as may be delegated to him by the Authority.
(1) The Central Government may remove from office any member, who,—"
(a) has been adjudged an insolvent; or
(b) has been convicted of an offence which, in the opinion of the Central Government, involves moral turpitude; or
(c) has become physically or mentally incapable of acting as a member; or
(d) has acquired such financial or other interest as is likely to affect prejudicially his functions as a member; or
(e) has so abused his position as to render his continuance in office prejudicial to the public interest.
1[(2) No such member shall be removed from his office under clause (d) or clause (e) of sub-section (1) unless he has been given a rea
(1) The Authority shall meet at such times and places, and shall observe such rules of procedure in regard to the transaction of business at its meetings (including quorum at such meetings) as may be provided by regulations."
(2) The Chairperson or, if for any reason, he is unable to attend a meeting of the Authority, Vice-Chairperson and in his absence, any other member chosen by the members present from amongst themselves at the meeting shall preside at the meeting.
(3) All questions which come up before any meeting of the Authority shall be decided by a majority vote of the members present and voting, and in the event of an equality of votes, the Chairperson or in his absence, the person presiding, shall have a second or casting vote.
(4) The Authority may make regulations for the transac
No act or proceeding of the Authority shall be invalid merely by reason of—
(a) any vacancy in, or any defect in the constitution of, the Authority; or
(b) any defect in the appointment of a person acting as a member of the Authority; or
(c) any irregularity in the procedure of the Authority not affecting the merits of the case.
(1) The Authority may appoint officers and such other employees as it considers necessary for the efficient discharge of its functions under this Act."
(2) The salary and allowances payable to and the other conditions of service of the officers and other employees of the Authority appointed under sub-section (1) shall be such as may be 1[prescribed]:
2[Provided that any regulation, in respect of the salary and allowances payable to and other conditions of service of the officers and other employees of the Authority, made before the commencement of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Act, 2000, shall cease to have effect immediately on the notification of rules made under clause (ca) of sub-section (2) of section 35.]
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1[(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 (13 of 1885), the functions of the Authority shall be to—"
(a) make recommendations, either suo motu or on a request from the licensor, on the following matters, namely:—
(i) need and timing for introduction of new service provider;
(ii) terms and conditions of licence to a service provider;
(iii) revocation of licence for non-compliance of terms and conditions of licence;
(iv) measures to facilitate competition and promote efficiency in the operation of telecommunication services so as to facilitate growth in such services;
(v) technological improvements in the service
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act, 1997 was enacted to regulate the telecommunications sector in India. Section 11 of the Act is the foundational provision that defines the functions, powers, and duties of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. This section enumerates the regulatory responsibilities of TRAI, including making recommendations, ensuring compliance, fixing tariffs, and promoting competition in the telecommunications sector.
Section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997 outlines the functions of the Authority, which include:- Making recommendations on the need and timing for introduction of new service providers- Setting terms and conditions of licenses- Revocation of licenses for non-compliance- Ensuring technical compatibility and effective inter-connection between different service providers- Regulating arrangements amongst service providers- Fixing rates for telecommunication services- Performing such other functions as may be prescribed
The scope of Section 11 is broad and encompasses:- Recommendatory powers regarding new service providers, license conditions, and revocation- Regulatory oversight over technical compatibility and inter-connection- Tariff regulation through notification in Official Gazette- Dispute resolution framework through TDSAT- Consumer protection through regulation of service quality and billing
The TRAI Act, 1997 provides for penalties including:- Fine up to one lakh rupees for violations- Fine up to two lakh rupees for repeated offences- Additional fines for continuing violations
Functions of Authority - TRAI has been constituted to discharge the duties and functions assigned to it by Section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997. Section 11(1)(b) deals with the discharge of the functions enumerated therein. - [Telecom Regulatory Authority of India VS Polimer Cable Network - Supreme Court (2026)]
Tariff Notification Power - Section 11(2) of TRAI Act provides that Authority may from time to time, by order, notify in Official Gazette rates at which telecommunication services shall be provided. The Authority as Regulator is expected to keep a watch on market and act whenever the situation so warrants. - [Film and Television Producers Guild of India Ltd. VS Union of India - 2021 0 Supreme(Bom) 1820]
Transparency Mandate - TRAI's refusal to disclose the cost model did not violate the transparency mandate under Section 11(4) of the TRAI Act. The consultation process and disclosure of information by TRAI were fair and reasonable, fulfilling the transparency requirement. - [VODAFONE INDIA LTD VS TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA - 2017 0 Supreme(Del) 3954]
TDSAT Adjudication - TRAI and TDSAT have authority to adjudicate disputes. A challenge to the decision of Appellate Authority on the ground that it did not contain reasons fails if the order merely reaffirms a previous speaking order. No interference in writ jurisdiction is called for if no material shows manifest injustice or irrevocable prejudice. - [MUSIC BROADCAST PRIVATE LIMITED, (DELHI) VS UNION OF INDIA - 2005 0 Supreme(Del) 113]
Consumer Protection - Under Section 11(1)(b), Section 11(2)(d), and Section 12, a consumer cannot be forced to adopt another telephone connection when there was no bona fide reason to stop the existing landline connection. Arbitrary closure of connection is not justified. - [BHARAT SANCHAR NIGAM LIMITED VS ASIM BHATTACHARYA - Consumer (2009)]
Defective Metering Jurisdiction - Consumer Forums have jurisdiction under Section 11(1)(a), Section 11(1)(b), and Section 11(2) to order re-issuance of correct bills on average basis in cases of metering defect and incorrect billing. Consumer Forums show intolerance towards high-handedness of the telephone department. - [B. S. N. L. VS JAYANTI PRASAD NAUTIYAL - Consumer (2004)]
Subscriber Verification - Under Section 11 of TRAI Act, issues of misuse of mobile connections and verification of subscriber details threatening national security must be resolved. DoT instructions dated 14th March, 2011 take care of most problems, but differences between DoT and TRAI should be resolved with expert assistance. - [Avishek Goenka VS Union of India - 2012 3 Supreme 554]
No Deficiency in Service - Telephone bills issued in accordance with metered calls do not constitute deficiency in service under Section 11(1)(b). No law requires the telephone department to provide an opportunity before sending bills. - [S. D. MARWAHA VS GENERAL MANAGER, TELECOME DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNI-CATION - Consumer (2001)]
Dealership Grant - Under Section 11, the lowest bidder for a pre-paid dealer contract is rightfully granted the contract if found eligible and financially sound. The court will not interfere if details establish eligibility. - [MALA VANASPATI STORE ETAH VS BHARAT SANCHAR NIGAM LTD - 2003 0 Supreme(All) 1588]
Regulatory Autonomy - The contention that amendments were a product of premature and hasty exercise cannot be countenanced. The Authority as Regulator is expected to keep a watch on market and act whenever the situation so warrants. - [Film and Television Producers Guild of India Ltd. VS Union of India - 2021 0 Supreme(Bom) 1820]
Limited Scope of TRAI Power - TRAI lacks the authority to "mould reliefs." TDSAT, as the competent adjudicating authority, can order restoration of signals while simultaneously ordering payment of arrears. A Statutory Authority like TRAI has no power to entertain counterclaims or award damages. - [Telecom Regulatory Authority of India VS Polimer Cable Network - Supreme Court (2026)]
Recommendatory vs. Adjudicatory Functions - Section 11 of TRAI Act separates recommendatory functions from adjudicatory functions. Recommendations made by TRAI can be challenged before TDSAT, which acts as the appellate authority. - [MUSIC BROADCAST PRIVATE LIMITED, (DELHI) VS UNION OF INDIA - 2005 0 Supreme(Del) 113]
Interconnection Regulation - Under Section 11, TRAI has powers to fix the terms and conditions of interconnectivity between service providers and to regulate arrangements amongst service providers. -
License Compliance - Section 11 empowers TRAI to ensure compliance of terms and conditions of license, including revocation of license for non-compliance and technological improvements in telecom services. -
Revenue Sharing - The functions of the Authority under Section 11 include regulating arrangements amongst service providers for sharing their revenue. -
Standards of Quality - Sub-clause (v) of clause (b) of sub-section (1) of Section 11 entrusts TRAI the function of laying down the standards of quality of service. -
Disclosure Obligations - Under Section 11, telecom service providers are required to disclose information regarding segmented offers and discounts. -
Administrative Functions - Section 11(1)(d) empowers TRAI to perform such other functions including administrative and financial functions as may be prescribed. -
Binding Nature of Directions - The Supreme Court has held that TRAI may issue directions to ensure compliance with regulations while exercising its powers under Section 11. -
Procedural Compliance - Whether TRAI complied with procedural requirements under Section 11(4) is a justiciable issue, and courts may examine if the consultation process was fair and reasonable. - [VODAFONE INDIA LTD VS TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA - 2017 0 Supreme(Del) 3954]
(1) Where the Authority considers it expedient so to do, it may, by order in writing,—"
(a) call upon any service provider at any time to furnish in writing such information or explanation relating to its affairs as the Authority may require; or
(b) appoint one or more persons to make an inquiry in relation to the affairs of any service provider; and
(c) direct any of its officers or employees to inspect the books of account or other documents of any service provider.
(2) Where any inquiry in relation to the affairs of a service provider has been undertaken under sub-section (1),—
(a) every officer of the Government Department, if such service provider is a department of the Government;
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The Authority may, for the discharge of its functions under sub-section (1) of section 11, issue such directions from time to time to the service providers, as it may consider necessary\:"
1[Provided that no direction under sub-section (4) of section 12 or under this section shall be issued except on the matters specified in clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 11.]
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1. Ins. by Act 2 of 2000, sec. 10 (w.r.e.f. 24-1-2000).
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act, 1997 was enacted to establish the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to regulate the telecommunications sector and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Section 13 of the Act confers upon the Authority the power to issue directions to service providers for the discharge of its functions under the Act. This provision serves as a crucial enforcement mechanism enabling TRAI to ensure compliance with regulatory framework and standards in the telecommunications industry.
Section 13 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997 empowers the Authority to issue such directions from time to time to the service providers for the discharge of its functions under sub-section (1) of Section 11 of the Act. The provision states:
"The Authority may, for the discharge of its functions under sub-section (1) of Section 11, issue such directions from time to time to the service providers, as it may consider necessary."
The punishment for wilful failure to comply with directions issued under Section 13 is prescribed under Section 29 of the TRAI Act, 1997:
Issuance of Directions - Directions under Section 13 are issued by TRAI to service providers for discharge of its functions under Section 11(1) of the Act, and such directions are binding on service providers.
Enforcement Mechanism - Section 13 empowers TRAI to issue binding directions; non-compliance attracts penalties under Section 29 of the Act, making it a crucial enforcement tool.
Distinction from Recommendations - Section 13 directions are mandatory and binding, unlike recommendations under other provisions; Section 13 does not make the recommendation of the Authority mandatory. ["Union Of India vs Telecom Regulatory on 16 July, 1998"]
Scope of Directions - Directions under Section 13, read with sub-clauses (i) and (v) of clause (b) of sub-section (1) of Section 11, cover a wide range of regulatory functions including tariffs, quality of service, and interconnectivity. ["Cellular Operators Association Of India & Ors. v. Telecom Regulatory"]
TDSAT Jurisdiction - The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes between service providers regarding directions issued under Section 13. ["Bennett Coleman And Co. Ltd. VS Broadcast Audience Research Council India - 2020 0 Supreme(Del) 1035"]
Transparency Requirement - The court emphasized the need for transparency in processes governed by TRAI directions and highlighted TDSAT's authority in adjudicating disputes between service providers. ["Bennett Coleman And Co. Ltd. VS Broadcast Audience Research Council India - 2020 0 Supreme(Del) 1035"]
Regulatory Oversight - Section 13 enables TRAI to issue directions for providing specified public telecommunication services, ensuring regulatory oversight over service quality.
Penalty Provisions - Violation of Section 13 directions attracts penalties under Section 29, with fines up to one lakh rupees for first offence and up to two lakh rupees for repeated offences.
Continuing Offences - For continuing failure to comply with directions under Section 13, additional fines may be imposed for each day of continued non-compliance.
Binding Nature - The directions issued under Section 13 are binding on service providers and must be complied with, failing which enforcement action may be taken.
Dispute Resolution - Disputes arising from directions under Section 13 are adjudicated by TDSAT, which has appellate jurisdiction over TRAI's regulatory actions. ["Bennett Coleman And Co. Ltd. VS Broadcast Audience Research Council India - 2020 0 Supreme(Del) 1035"]
Policy Implementation - Government policies and regulatory framework notified by TRAI pursuant to its powers under Section 13 have resulted in India having one of the lowest tariffs for subscribers globally.
Harmonious Construction - Sections 11, 12, and 13 must be construed harmoniously; the power to issue directions under Section 13 is not controlled or limited by Section 36(2) of the Act. ["SC on powers of TRAI and TDSAT"]
Functional Connection - The power under Section 13 is functionally linked to TRAI's duties under Section 11(1), ensuring that directions are connected to the Authority's statutory functions.
Adjudicatory Limitations - The court clarified that observations made during proceedings regarding Section 13 directions would not bind TDSAT and that TDSAT should remain uninfluenced by such observations. ["Bennett Coleman And Co. Ltd. VS Broadcast Audience Research Council India - 2020 0 Supreme(Del) 1035"]
Enforcement Against Service Providers - Section 13 specifically empowers TRAI to issue directions to "service providers" as defined under the Act, creating a clear regulatory hierarchy.
Compliance Requirement - Directions issued under Section 13, read with relevant clauses, require cellular mobile telephone service providers to provide data to regional offices for regulatory compliance. ["Consultation - Direction under section 13 of TRAI Act 1997"]
Statutory Scheme - TDSAT failed to appreciate the statutory scheme inasmuch as even if directions under Section 13 are violated, the enforcement mechanism under Section 29 must be followed. ["TRAI's Power to Enforce Telecom Regulations"]
Amendment Impact - The TRAI Act was amended vide Ordinance dated 24-1-2000 to include additional powers, expanding the scope of directions that could be issued under Section 13. ["Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited v. Telecom Regulatory"]
Independent Regulatory Power - Section 13 provides TRAI with independent regulatory power to issue directions without requiring prior government approval, ensuring regulatory autonomy.
(1) All appeals pending before the High Court immediately before the commencement of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Act, 2000, shall stand transferred to the Appellate Tribunal on its establishment under section 14."
(2) Where any appeal stands transferred from the High Court to the Appellate Tribunal under sub-section (1),—
(a) the High Court shall, as soon as may be after such transfer, forward the records of such appeal to the Appellate Tribunal; and
(b) the Appellate Tribunal may, on receipt of such records, proceed to deal with such appeal, so far as may be from the stage which was reached before such transfer or from any earlier stage or de novo as the Appellate Tribunal may deem fit.
All applications, pending for adjudication of disputes before the Authority immediately before the date of establishment of the Appellate Tribunal under this Act, shall stand transferred on that date to such Tribunal\:"
Provided that all disputes being adjudicated under the provisions of Chapter IV as it stood immediately before the commencement of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Act, 2000, shall continue to be adjudicated by the Authority in accordance with the provisions, contained in that Chapter, till the establishment of the Appellate Tribunal under the said Act:
Provided further that all cases referred to in the first proviso shall be transferred by the Authority to the Appellate Tribunal immediately on its establishment under section 14.
The Chairperson, Members and other officers and employees of the Appellate Tribunal shall be deemed to be public servants within the meaning of section 21 of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860).
If the Members of a Bench consisting of two Members differ in opinion on any point, they shall state the point or points on which they differ, and make a reference to the Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal who shall hear the point or points himself and such point or points shall be decided according to the opinion of the majority who have heard the case, including those who first heard it.
On the application of any of the parties and after notice to the parties, and after hearing such of them as he may desire to be heard, or on his own motion without such notice, the Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal may transfer any case pending before one Bench, for disposal, to any other Bench.
Where Benches are constituted, the Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal may, from time to time, by notification, make provisions as to the distribution of the business of the Appellate Tribunal amongst the Benches and also provide for the matters which may be dealt with by each Bench.
(1) The Central Government shall provide the Appellate Tribunal with such officers and employees as it may deem fit."
(2) The officers and employees of the Appellate Tribunal shall discharge their functions under the general superintendence of its Chairperson.
(3) The salaries and allowances and other conditions of service of such officers and employees of the Appellate Tribunal shall be such as may be prescribed.
(1) The Central Government may remove from office, the Chairperson or any Member of the Appellate Tribunal, who—"
(a) has been adjudged an insolvent; or
(b) has been convicted of an offence which, in the opinion of the Central Government, involves moral turpitude; or
(c) has become physically or mentally incapable of acting as the Chairperson or a Member; or
(d) has acquired such financial or other interest as is likely to affect prejudicially his functions as the Chairperson or a Member; or
(e) has so abused his position as to render his continuance in office prejudicial to the public interest.
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-secti
If, for reason other than temporary absence, any vacancy occurs in the office of the Chairperson or a Member of the Appellate Tribunal, the Central Government shall appoint another person in accordance with the provisions of this Act to fill the vacancy and the proceedings may be continued before the Appellate Tribunal from the stage at which the vacancy is filled.
The salary and allowances payable to and the other terms and conditions of service of the Chairperson and other Members of the Appellate Tribunal shall be such as may be prescribed\:"
Provided that neither the salary and allowances nor the other terms and conditions of service of the Chairperson or a Member of the Appellate Tribunal shall be varied to his disadvantage after appointment.
The Central Government shall, by notification, establish an Appellate Tribunal to be known as the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal to—"
(a) adjudicate any dispute—
(i) between a licensor and a licensee;
(ii) between two or more service providers;
(iii) between a service provider and a group of consumers:
(A) the monopolistic trade practice, restrictive trade practice and unfair trade practice which are subject to the jurisdiction of the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Commission established under sub-section (1) of section 5 of the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, 1969 (54 of 1969);
(B) the complain
The Chairperson and every other Member of the Appellate Tribunal shall hold office as such for a term not exceeding three years from the date on which he enters upon his office\:"
Provided that no Chairperson or other Member shall hold office as such after he has attained,—
(a) in the case of Chairperson, the age of seventy years;
(b) in the case of any other Member, the age of sixty-five years.
A person shall not be qualified for appointment as the Chairperson or a Member of the Appellate Tribunal unless he—"
(a) in the case of Chairperson, is, or has been, a Judge of the Supreme Court or the Chief Justice of a High Court;
(b) in the case of a Member, has held the post of Secretary to the Government of India or any equivalent post in the Central Government or the State Government for a period of not less than two years or a person who is well versed in the field of technology, telecommunication, industry, commerce or administration.
(1) The Appellate Tribunal shall consist of a Chairperson and not more than two Members to be appointed, by notification, by the Central Government."
(2) The selection of Chairperson and Members of the Appellate Tribunal shall be made by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
(3) Subject to the provisions of this Act,—
(a) the jurisdiction of the Appellate Tribunal may be exercised by the Benches thereof;
(b) a Bench may be constituted by the Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal with one or two Members of such Tribunal as the Chairperson may deem fit;
(c) the Benches of the Appellate Tribunal shall ordinarily sit at New Delhi and at such other places as the Centr
(1) The Central Government or a State Government or a local authority or any person may make an application to the Appellate Tribunal for adjudication of any dispute referred to in clause (a) of section 14."
(2) The Central Government or a State Government or a local authority or any person aggrieved by any direction, decision or order made by the Authority may prefer an appeal to the Appellate Tribunal.
(3) Every appeal under sub-section (2) shall be preferred within a period of thirty days from the date on which a copy of the direction or order or decision made by the Authority is received by the Central Government or the State Government or the local authority or the aggrieved person and it shall be in such form, verified in such manner and be accompanied by such fee as may be prescribed:
No civil court shall have jurisdiction to entertain any suit or proceeding in respect of any matter which the Appellate Tribunal is empowered by or under this Act to determine and no injunction shall be granted by any court or other authority in respect of any action taken or to be taken in pursuance of any power conferred by or under this Act.
(1) The Appellate Tribunal shall not be bound by the procedure laid down by the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908), but shall be guided by the principles of natural justice and, subject to the other provisions of this Act, the Appellate Tribunal shall have powers to regulate its own procedure."
(2) The Appellate Tribunal shall have, for the purposes of discharging its functions under this Act, the same powers as are vested in a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908), while trying a suit, in respect of the following matters, namely:—
(a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on oath;
(b) requiring the discovery and production of documents;
(d) subject to the provisions of secti
The applicant or appellant may either appear in person or authorise one or more chartered accountants or company secretaries or cost accountants or legal practitioners or any of its officers to present his or its case before the Appellate Tribunal."
Explanation.—For the purposes of this section,—
(a) “chartered accountant” means a chartered accountant as defined in clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 2 of the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 (38 of 1949) and who has obtained a certificate of practice under sub-section (1) of section 6 of that Act;
(b) “company secretary” means a company secretary as defined in clause (c) of sub-section (1) of section 2 of the Company Secretaries Act, 1980 (56 of 1980) and who has obtained a certificate of practice under sub-section (1) of section 6 o
(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908) or in any other law, an appeal shall lie against any order, not being an interlocutory order, of the Appellate Tribunal to the Supreme Court on one or more of the grounds specified in section 100 of that Code."
(2) No appeal shall lie against any decision or order made by the Appellate Tribunal with the consent of the parties.
(3) Every appeal under this section shall be preferred within a period of ninety days from the date of the decision or order appealed against:
Provided that the Supreme Court may entertain the appeal after the expiry of the said period of ninety days, if it is satisfied that the appellant was prevented by sufficient cause from preferring the appeal in time.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act, 1997 was enacted to establish the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to regulate telecommunication services, adjudicate disputes, and dispose of matters related to the telecommunications sector. Section 18 of the Act provides for the appellate mechanism, specifically dealing with appeals from the Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) to the Supreme Court of India.
Section 18 of the TRAI Act, 1997 provides for appeals to the Supreme Court. The key provisions include:
The scope of Section 18 is limited to appeals against orders of the Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) to the Supreme Court. It establishes a hierarchical appellate structure where the Supreme Court can review decisions of TDSAT on substantial questions of law. The provision specifically excludes appeals against interlocutory orders and consent orders.
Section 18 does not prescribe any punishment. It is an appellate provision. Punishment for offences under the TRAI Act is provided under other sections, including fines up to one lakh rupees for contraventions, with enhanced fines for repeated offences.
Jurisdiction of TDSAT - The Tribunal has requisite jurisdiction to deal with disputes on merits, and orders of TDSAT that are not interlocutory are appealable to the Supreme Court under Section 18. [Union Of India VS Aircel Limited - 2012 0 Supreme(Del) 566]
Alternative Remedy - Writ petitions challenging TDSAT orders are not maintainable due to the availability of the alternative remedy of appeal under Section 18 of the TRAI Act. The High Court dismissed petitions on this ground. [Star India Private Limited VS Noida Software Technology Park Limited - 2016 0 Supreme(Del) 321]
Substantial Question of Law - Section 18 provides that appeals to the Supreme Court shall lie on one or more grounds specified in Section 100 of the CPC, meaning only substantial questions of law can be raised. [Dilip Kundu VS Mira Devi Agarwal @ Mina Devi Agarwal - 2022 0 Supreme(Cal) 615]
Non-Interlocutory Orders - Only orders that are not interlocutory can be appealed under Section 18. Orders that finally determine rights of parties are considered non-interlocutory and appealable. [Union Of India VS Aircel Limited - 2012 0 Supreme(Del) 566]
Non-Applicability of CPC in Full - The applicability of principles under Section 100 CPC for Section 18 appeals does not mean the entire CPC applies to proceedings under the TRAI Act. [Dilip Kundu VS Mira Devi Agarwal @ Mina Devi Agarwal - 2022 0 Supreme(Cal) 615]
Consent Orders Barred - Section 18(2) expressly provides that no appeal shall lie against any decision or order made by the Appellate Tribunal with the consent of the parties.
Limitation Period - Every appeal under Section 18 must be preferred within a period of ninety days from the date of the decision or order appealed against.
Overriding Effect - Section 18(1) begins with a non-obstante clause, overriding anything contained in the CPC or any other law regarding appeals.
Public Interest vs. Private Interest - In matters involving public interest, individual objections to approved schemes are limited to claiming compensation, and public interest prevails over private interest. [Vinod Chatter VS State of J&K - 2015 0 Supreme(J&K) 158]
In Pari Delicto Principle - TDSAT lacked jurisdiction to entertain claims where licenses were quashed due to complicity in flawed policies, and claims for restitution were precluded under the principle of in pari delicto. [Loop Telecom and Trading Limited VS Union of India - 2022 0 Supreme(SC) 198]
Set Off Policy - Policy of set-off granted by the Union government to other telecom licensees does not extend to parties who sought to circumvent public interest and policy considerations. [Loop Telecom and Trading Limited VS Union of India - 2022 0 Supreme(SC) 198]
Finality of Supreme Court Decisions - Issues already settled by the Supreme Court cannot be re-agitated before TDSAT, and TDSAT lacks jurisdiction over matters where the Supreme Court has pronounced judgments. [Loop Telecom and Trading Limited VS Union of India - 2022 0 Supreme(SC) 198]
Note: The sources referenced above relate to the interpretation and application of Section 18 and related provisions in various contexts, including telecommunications disputes.
(1) An order passed by the Appellate Tribunal under this Act shall be executable by the Appellate Tribunal as a decree of civil court, and for this purpose, the Appellate Tribunal shall have all the powers of a civil court."
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (1), the Appellate Tribunal may transmit any order made by it to a civil court having local jurisdiction and such civil court shall execute the order as if it were a decree made by that court.
If any person wilfully fails to comply with the order of the Appellate Tribunal, he shall be punishable with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees and in case of a second or subsequent offence with fine which may extend to two lakh rupees and in the case of continuing contravention with additional fine which may extend to two lakh rupees for every day during which such default continues.
The Central Government may, after due appropriation made by Parliament by law in this behalf, make to the Authority grants of such sums of money as are required to pay salaries and allowances payable to the Chairperson and the members and the administrative expenses including the salaries, allowances and pension payable to or in respect of officers and other employees of the Authority.
(1) There shall be constituted a fund to be called the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India General Fund and there shall be credited thereto—"
(a) all grants, fees and charges received by the Authority under this Act; and
(b) all sums received by the Authority from such other sources as may be decided upon by the Central Government.
(2) The Fund shall be applied for meeting—
(a) the salaries and allowances payable to the Chairperson and members and the administrative expenses including the salaries, allowances and pension payable to or in respect of officers and other employees of the Authority; and
(b) the expenses on objects and for purposes authorised by this Act.
(1) The Authority shall maintain proper accounts and other relevant records and prepare an annual statement of accounts in such form as may be prescribed by the Central Government in consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India."
(2) The accounts of the Authority shall be audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India at such intervals as may be specified by him and any expenditure incurred in connection with such auditor shall be payable by the Authority to the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.
1[Explanation.—For the removal of doubts it is hereby declared that the decisions of the Authority taken in discharge of its functions under clause (b) of sub-section (1) and sub-section (2) of section 11 and section 13, being matters appealable to the Appellate Tribunal, shall not be subject to audit under
(1) The Authority shall furnish to the Central Government at such time and in such form and manner as may be prescribed or as the Central Government may direct, such returns and statements and such particulars in regard to any proposed or existing programme for the promotion and development of the telecommunication services, as the Central Government from time to time, require."
(2) The Authority shall prepare once every year in such form and at such time as may be prescribed, an annual report giving a summary of its activities during the previous year and copies of the report shall be forwarded to the Central Government.
(3) A copy of the report received under sub-section (2) shall be laid, as soon as may be after it is received, before each House of Parliament.
(1) The Central Government may, from time to time, issue to the Authority such directions as it may think necessary in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality."
(2) Without prejudice to the foregoing provisions, the Authority shall, in exercise of its powers or the performance of its functions, be bound by such directions on questions of policy as the Central Government may give in writing to it from time to time:
Provided that the Authority shall, as far as practicable, be given an opportunity to express its views before any direction is given under this sub-section.
(3) The decision of the Central Government whether a question is one of policy or not shall be final.
All members, officers and other employees of the Authority shall be deemed, when acting or purporting to act in pursuance of any of the provisions of this Act to be public servants within the meaning of section 21 of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860)."
Illustration
A Municipal Commissioner is a public servant.
Explanation 1.—Persons falling under any of the above descriptions are public servants, whether appointed by the Government or not.
Explanation 2.—Wherever the words “public servant” occur, they shall be understood of every person who is in actual possession of the situation of a public servant, whatever legal defect there may be in his right to hold that situation.
Explanation 3.—The word “electi
No civil court shall have jurisdiction in respect of any matter which the Authority is empowered by or under this Act to determine.
No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie against the Central Government or the Authority or any officer of Central Government or any member, officer or other employees of the Authority for anything which is in good faith done or intended to be done under this Act or the rules or regulations made thereunder.
If a person violates directions of the Authority, such person shall be punishable with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees and in case of second or subsequent offence with fine which may extend to two lakh rupees and in the case of continuing contravention with additional fine which may extend to two lakh rupees for every day during which the default continues.
(1) Where an offence under this Act has been committed by a company, every person who at the time the offence was committed was in charge of, and was responsible to, the company for the conduct of the business of the company, as well as the company, shall be deemed to be guilty of the offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly\:"
Provided that nothing contained in this sub-section shall render any such person liable to any punishment provided in this Act if he proves that the offence was committed without his knowledge or that he has exercised all due diligence to prevent the commission of such offence.
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (1), where an offence under this Act has been committed by a company and it is proved that the offence has been committed with the consent or conniva
(1) Where an offence under this Act has been committed by any Department of Government, the Head of the Department shall be deemed to be guilty of the offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly unless he proves that the offence was committed without his knowledge or that he exercised all due diligence to prevent the commission of such offence."
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (1) where an offence under this Act has been committed by a Department of Government and it is proved that the offence has been committed with the consent or connivance of, or is attributable to any neglect on the part of, any officer, other than the Head of the Department, such officer shall also be deemed to be guilty of that offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly.
Notwithstanding anything contained in the Wealth-tax Act, 1957 (27 of 1957), the Income-tax Act, 1961 (43 of 1961), or any other enactment for the time being in force relating to tax on wealth, income, profits or gains, the Authority shall not be liable to pay wealth-tax, income-tax or any other tax in respect of their wealth, income, profits or gains derived.
The Authority may, by general or special order in writing, delegate to any member, officer of the Authority or any other person subject to such conditions, if any, as may be specified in the order, such of its powers and functions under this Act (except the power to settle dispute under Chapter IV and to make regulation under section 36) as it may deem necessary.
(1) No court shall take cognizance of any offence punishable under this Act or the rules or regulations made thereunder, save on a complaint made by the Authority."
(2) No court inferior to that of a Chief Metropolitan Magistrate or a Chief Judicial Magistrate of first class shall try any offence punishable under this Act.
(1) The Central Government may, by notification, make rules for carrying out the purposes of this Act."
(2) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such rules may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely:—
(a) the salary and allowances payable to and the other conditions of service of the Chairperson and members under sub-section (5) of section 5;
1[(aa) the allowance payable to the part-time members under sub-section (6A) of section 5;]
(b) the powers and functions of the Chairperson under sub-section (1) of section 6;
(c) the procedure for conducting an inquiry made under sub-section (2) of section 7;
&nbs
(1) The Authority may, by notification, make regulations consistent with this Act and the rules made thereunder to carry out the purposes of this Act."
(2) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such regulations may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely:—
(a) the times and places of meetings of the Authority and the procedure to be followed at such meetings under sub-section (1) of section 8, including quorum necessary for the transaction of business;
(b) the transaction of business at the meetings of the Authority under sub-section (4) of section 8;
1[***]
(d) matters in respect of which register is to be maintained by the authority 2[u
Every rule and every regulation made under this Act shall be laid, as soon as may be after it is made, before each House of Parliament, while it is in session, for a total period of thirty days which may be comprised in one session or in two or more successive sessions, and if, before the expiry of the session immediately following the session or the successive sessions aforesaid, both Houses agree in making any modification in the rule or regulation or both Houses agree that the rule or regulation should not be made, the rule or regulation shall thereafter have effect only in such modified form or be of no effect, as the case may be; so, however, that any such modification or annulment shall be without prejudice to the validity of anything previously done under that rule or regulation.
The provisions of this Act shall be in addition to the provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 (13 of 1885) and the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 (17 of 1933) and, in particular, nothing in this Act shall affect any jurisdiction, powers and functions required to be exercised or performed by the Telegraph Authority in relation to any area falling within the jurisdiction of such Authority.
(1) If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the provisions of this Act, the Central Government may, by order, published in the Official Gazette, make such provisions not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act as may appear to be necessary for removing the difficulty\:"
Provided that no order shall be made under this section after the expiry of two years from the date of commencement of this Act.
(2) Every order made under this section shall be laid, as soon as may be after it is made, before each House of Parliament.
(1) The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Ordinance, 1997 (Ord. 11 of 1997) is hereby repealed."
(2) Notwithstanding such repeal, anything done or any action taken under the said Ordinance shall be deemed to have been done or taken under the corresponding provisions of this Act.
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