Suspension of approvals to affect other businesses also, GP decries BTRC decision

Grameenphone (GP), the country's largest mobile phone operator, has protested the telecom regulator's decision to withhold issuing any kind of approvals, including NOCs (no-objection certificate), to the operator.

The GP requires such approvals for its regular operations.

The operator termed the decision an extreme measure, which does not account for customer interests. The decision would affect customer experience with phone calls, Internet browsing and digital media accessibility, it said.

"It (the decision) also deprives citizens of the freedom of choice of using products and services that meet their lifestyle requirements," Grameenphone CEO Michael Foley said at a press conference at a city hotel on Thursday.

On July 18, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) decided to refrain from issuing any kind of approval related to service and maintenance to Grameenphone and Robi to create pressure on the operators to clear dues.

Michael Foley said the interests of consumers and the economy as well as the reputation of the country should never be used as currency in the resolution of commercial disputes.

The impact on others caused by the actions of the regulator is material and deeply regrettable, he added.

"We have a legitimate right to dispute the claim on the basis of principle, methodology and substance. The unprecedented use of punitive techniques by the regulator makes us question the motive of the disputed audit," said Mr Foley.

He also highlighted that stopping operational approvals would lead to a forced freeze on additional investments in network expansion, which will hamper the digitalisation journey of the nation.

"Suspension of approvals would also affect other businesses (and their employees) that are a part of the value chain, such as network and infrastructure partners, digital entrepreneurs and ICT freelancers," he added.

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