India’s telecom industry is witnessing fresh regulatory discussions around premium 5G connectivity services after both Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited and Bharti Airtel Limited defended the use of network slicing technology, arguing that differentiated service quality under advanced 5G architecture does not amount to discriminatory internet treatment.
In a submission dated May 25, 2026, to the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, Jio stated that network slicing capabilities within 5G Standalone networks remain aligned with India’s net neutrality principles as long as regular internet access is neither degraded nor restricted for users.
The company said compliance would depend on ensuring that no content-based differential pricing is introduced and that general internet quality remains unaffected.
Jio clarified that its submission was focused on the broader issue of “Network Slicing Vs Net Neutrality” rather than the implementation of any individual telecom operator’s service.
At the same time, the company added that consumer-facing priority connectivity offerings should be introduced only after consultation and concurrence with the Department of Telecommunications.
Jio also suggested that authorities could evaluate technical arrangements, service-level agreements, quality-of-service thresholds and network configuration parameters if required to assess alignment with regulatory norms.
Separately, Airtel defended its 5G slicing-based “Priority Postpaid” service before the telecom department and the parliamentary panel.
In its May 25 communication, the telecom operator said the offering had been structured in accordance with TRAI regulations, DoT licence conditions and relevant IT, 3GPP and TEC standards.
The company said “Priority Postpaid” was specifically designed to remain within India’s net neutrality framework and maintained that the service does not involve “blocking, throttling or preferential treatment” of any content or application.
Airtel also said it would continue engaging with regulators and remain transparent by sharing live network performance data to demonstrate that user experience remains unaffected across subscriber categories.
Read More: Reliance’s Jio Studios Commits ₹5,000 Crore for Content Enhancement Despite Box Office Challenges!
As of 27 May 2026, at 9:17 AM, Bharti Airtel share price is trading at ₹1,851.40 per share, reflecting a surge of 0.24% from the previous closing price.
The ongoing debate around 5G network slicing highlights the regulatory balancing act between enabling advanced telecom services and maintaining India’s long-standing net neutrality principles as operators expand premium connectivity offerings.
Want to read stock market updates in Hindi? Angel One News gives comprehensive share market news in Hindi.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.
Published on: May 27, 2026, 11:22 AM IST
Team Angel One
We're Live on WhatsApp! Join our channel for market insights & updates
Get the link to download the App
