Bharti Airtel, India’s largest telecom operator, has challenged Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) decision for allowing Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio provide free services beyond 90 days, accusing the regulator of being a ‘mute spectator’ and ‘sleeping trustee’ to the violations carried out by Jio. 
In its 25-page petition filed before Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT), Airtel has asked the body to direct TRAI to ensure that Jio does not provide its free voice and data plan beyond December 3. For those who are unaware, Reliance Jio extended its free services till March 31st 2017 by introducing Jio Happy New Year offer earlier this month.
Further, just after Reliance Jio made this announcement, TRAI came up with a statement assuring that it will thoroughly examine the new offer from Reliance Jio. However, later the regulatory body failed to pop out any conclusion on its examination.
Airtel has accused that the free services offered by Jio has caused “significant prejudice and day-to-day loss” to it and is “affecting its network” as it has to bear asymmetric traffic due to the free calling services offered by Reliance Jio. The petition was presented before the TDSAT bench on Friday, where the regulatory body has asked for 10 more days to take a decision. However, TDSAT has directed TRAI to come back with its decision next day and has instructed Jio to file an impleading application as well. The next date of hearing has been set on January 6.