New Delhi: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is likely to issue a show-cause notice to the cellular operators tomorrow (Jan 16) for defying its directive to provide interconnection to basic telecom players offering WLL based limited mobile services.

This is mandatory prior to taking any action for non-compliance of TRAI's directive, TRAI sources said, adding that a period of 72 hours would be given to the players as well as an opportunity for personal hearing.

TRAI, however, confirmed that the deadline issued by the Authority has passed and a legal action as per the TRAI Act will be taken against the cellular operators.

Sources said there was a provision in this regard in the Section 29 and 30 of the TRAI Act. In case of first violation, TRAI can impose a penalty of upto Rs one lakh, which would be doubled in the second instance.

If the companies continue to defy TRAI's directive the Authority can impose a penalty of Rs two lakh per day, sources said adding that TRAI can also seek the nodal Ministry's intervention to resolve the issue.

On January 14, TRAI had given an ultimatum to the cellular companies to allow completion of calls originating from WLL based networks of the basic telecom players like Tata Teleservices within 24 hours or face necessary action.

When contacted the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) representative refused to comment on the situation saying the body (COAI) has not yet taken any decision.

PTI