In a move to strengthen the process of verification and to settle the existing disputes of ownership of the mobile numbers after MNPs, TRAI has directed the telecom operators to obtain an undertaking of ownership of the mobile numbers from subscribers, at the time of porting.
The direction, which is published on the regulator’s website also says that the number has to be discontinued, in case the obtained information is false. For the discontinued numbers, the operator has to furnish a compliance report within 21 days from the date of issue of this direction.
Earlier the regulator invited comments from the stakeholders on the issue, and the current regulation is based on their feedback.
Rolling out full MNP has always been a topic of heated debate for TRAI and the operators. TRAI had issued a notice to service operators, asking them to implement full MNP by May 3, 2015. If executed, the subscribers can retain their mobile numbers when they move to different circles.
However, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) had announced technical glitches and coordination issues in rolling out full MNP. Government rejected this extension request and warned operators of action, if they miss May 3 deadline.
