AGR case: Telecom companies can use spectrum but not own it, says SC

Jio tells court it has paid Rs 195 crore dues

The Supreme Court (SC) said on Wednesday telecom firms only have a right to use spectrum and it is not an asset they own. This observation was made by the apex court in the adjusted gross revenue (AGR) case.

Advocate Harish Salve, who represented Reliance Jio, said spectrum is recorded as an asset by virtue of being purchased in an auction and sale of airwaves can only take place with nod of the department of telecommunications (DoT) when the resolution is approved. “There is no other right that can be claimed on spectrum beyond this. Spectrum is not something one can