Centre to Review SC Verdict Before Granting Vodafone Idea AGR Relief, Says Scindia

India’s telecom minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has stated that the government will examine the final Supreme Court order before considering any relief measures for Vodafone Idea related to adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues. 

The move indicates that policy decisions will be based on the written judgment’s implications and a formal request from the telecom operator.

Centre Awaits Supreme Court Order Before Taking Policy Call

Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that the Centre has not yet received the detailed written order from the Supreme Court regarding Vodafone Idea’s AGR dispute. Once received, the government will evaluate its implications to decide the appropriate course of action. Vodafone Idea must first formally apply for support to initiate this process. 

The court has indicated that the AGR resolution sits within the government’s policy domain, thereby allowing room for the Centre to act.

Government’s Stake and Customer Base in Focus

A key consideration in this evolving situation is the Centre’s 49% equity stake in Vodafone Idea, acquired through the conversion of ₹53,000 crore dues under the 2021 rescue plan. The fate of over 200 million customers and the preservation of market competition underscore the matter’s urgency. The Solicitor General previously argued that the scenario has evolved significantly, and consumer interests are now central to the debate.

Read More: Vodafone Idea Share Price in Focus; Breaks 21-Month Losing Streak With First Active Subscriber Gain!

Vodafone Idea’s ₹9,450 Crore AGR Challenge

Vodafone Idea has contested an additional AGR demand of ₹9,450 crore, citing calculation errors and duplication. The company is seeking a fresh reconciliation of dues and is expected to file an application for relief once the judgment is formally published. The favourable language of the apex court’s observation has sparked renewed optimism among stakeholders regarding the company’s survival and restructuring prospects.

Conclusion

The Centre’s decision on providing AGR relief to Vodafone Idea hinges on the Supreme Court’s yet-to-be-published detailed judgment. With a 49% stake and over 200 million users at stake, any policy shift will aim to balance fiscal responsibility with public interest and telecom sector sustainability.

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