PTA has renewed its request to the Ministry of Information Technology (IT) for a clear policy directive on the renewal of Long Distance and International (LDI) companies’ licenses and the collection of outstanding dues.
In a letter to the ministry, PTA highlighted that while some LDI companies have agreed to adjust their dues from their escrow accounts, a formal policy directive is necessary to proceed with further adjustments.
PTA noted that the case for adjusting dues from escrow accounts was forwarded to the Ministry of IT following the consent of one company, 4B Gentle. However, the ministry has yet to respond to PTA’s request. The PTA emphasized that withdrawals from escrow accounts can only be made with the mutual consent of both parties.
LDI companies owe a total of Rs. 24 billion in Universal Service Fund (USF) APC charges and an additional Rs. 54 billion in late payment surcharges. The PTA has refused to renew the licenses of these companies until all outstanding dues are cleared. Some LDI companies have obtained stay orders from the court to continue their operations without settling their dues.
PTA’s request for a clear policy directive from the Ministry of IT is aimed at resolving the ongoing dispute and ensuring a fair and transparent process for LDI companies and the telecom industry.
