Vodafone, Airtel, Tata’s Plea Over Waiver Of Dues Rejected By Supreme Court

In a significant blow to telecom companies, the Supreme Court on Monday rejected the petitions filed by Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Tata Teleservices, all of whom had sought waivers on interest, penalties, and the interest accrued on those penalties tied to their adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues.

A Bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan dismissed the pleas, expressing strong disapproval over the companies’ move to approach the apex court. The judges referred to the petitions as “misconceived” and questioned the propriety of such requests from major corporate players, reported The Economic Times.

“We are really shocked by these petitions which have come before us. It is not expected of a multinational company. We will dismiss it,” the Bench stated, addressing senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared on behalf of Vodafone.