The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has tightened the rules to curb spam calls and has also mentioned the penalty for telecom companies. Mobile users will now be able to easily report spam calls and get rid of unwanted commercial calls (UCC). TRAI shared this information through a post on the X platform (formerly known as Twitter).
TRAI has amended the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR), 2018 to improve consumer protection. As a result, users will be able to avoid telemarketing calls from 10-digit numbers and the reporting process has been simplified. The regulation also provides for penalties for telecom companies. Following this, telecom companies have objected to this decision.
Table of Contents
Introduction of 140 and 1600 Number Series for Commercial Calls
TRAI has already discontinued the use of 10-digit mobile numbers for commercial communication. A new number series will be introduced starting with 140 and 1600 series.
The 140 number series will be used for promotional calls, while the 1600 series will be used for transaction-related calls.
Cracking Down on Unregistered Telemarketers
Following TRAI’s new decision, action will be taken against unregistered telemarketers who misuse telecom resources. Penalty will also be imposed. Violation of the rules for the first time will result in a suspension of 15 days and repeated violations can result in disconnection of telecom resources for up to one year.
Telecom Companies Also to Face Fines
Telecom operators will also face penalties. These companies will be fined for not following the rules. The initial fine amount will be Rs 2 lakh, which can go up to Rs 5 lakh. If the mistake is repeated, the fine can increase to Rs 10 lakh.
COAI Questions Exclusion of Messaging Apps
The Telecom Industry Association of India (COAI) has objected to the increase in the amount of fines for telecom companies. They have also raised the question why social messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram were left out of the rules.
Also Read: Kejriwal, Sisodia, and Atishi to Face Court Every Day, Warns Virendra Sachdeva
