The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997

THE TELECOM REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA ACT, 1997

This Act establishes the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India and the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal to regulate the telecommunication services, adjudicate disputes, dispose of appeals, and protect the interests of service providers and consumers in the telecom sector.

Powers and Functions of the Authority:

• Make recommendations on matters such as introducing new service providers, terms and conditions of licenses, revocation of licenses, and measures to facilitate competition.


• Discharge functions related to ensuring compliance with license terms, fixing rates for telecommunication services, and performing administrative and financial tasks.

Establishment of Appellate Tribunal:

• The Central Government shall establish an Appellate Tribunal to adjudicate disputes between service providers, including disputes over licensing, interconnectivity, and consumer complaints.


• The Appellate Tribunal will have jurisdiction over appeals against the Authority's decisions and orders.

Eligibility for Appointment of Chairperson and Members:

• The Chairperson and members must have special knowledge and professional experience in telecommunication, industry, finance, accountancy, law, management, or consumer affairs.

Term of Office, Conditions of Service, etc.:

• The Chairperson and members shall hold office for a term not exceeding three years, with the option to reappoint.


• The salary and allowances payable to the Chairperson and members will be such as may be prescribed.

Removal and Suspension of Members:

• The Central Government may remove any member who has been adjudged insolvent, convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude, or become physically or mentally incapable of performing their duties.

Regulations:

• The Authority shall make regulations for the transaction of business at its meetings.