Voda Idea seeks 2-year moratorium for paying Rs 10,000 cr spectrum charge

Vodafone and Idea participated in five spectrum auctions in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016 before merging their businesses in August 2108.

Vodafone Idea has sought a two-year moratorium on its annual spectrum payment of about Rs 10,000 crore, citing debt and stress on the balance sheet.

"The request (to the telecom department) is being examined and it has to be scrutinised and considered by other departments/ministries in the government before taking any decision," a senior government official told PTI.

When contacted, Vodafone Idea spokesperson said: "However, India's telecom industry is currently suffering considerable financial stress and this has been extensively reported in the media".

Vodafone and Idea participated in five spectrum auctions in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016 before merging their businesses in