Question : LOSSES SUFFERED BY BSNL AND MTNL

(a) whether the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and the Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) have suffered losses to the tune of more than Rs. 2000 crores during the last two months as reported in the Hindi daily Dainik Jagaran dated November 22, 2005;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) the reaction of the Government thereto;

(d) whether any assessment has been made regarding losses likely to be suffered by the BSNL/the MTNL due to delay in the implementation of the projects undertaken;

(e) if so, whether any investigation has been conducted by the Government in this regard; and

(f) if so, details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD)

(a) to (f) Both BSNL/MTNL have stated that no loss has been caused as reported in the Hindi daily Dainik Jagaran dated November 22, 2005. This report is based on the Press conference addressed by the President and General Secretary of the Indian Telecom Service Association (ITSA). ITSA has reportedly referred to reversion of about 1300 ITS officers to Government on expiry of their deemed deputation from BSNL/MTNL.

The process of absorption was in accordance with the decision already made by the Government regarding corporatisation of telecom services according to which the ITS officers in March, 2005 were offered terms of absorption. Various clarifications were given from time to time.

However, a large number of cases filed by Group A officers of Indian Telecom Service (ITS) individually and through their Associations challenging the option letter dated 24-03-2005 and/or 18-10-2005 are pending adjudication by various Benches of Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) and High Courts. As on date pending final disposal of cases, interim orders of various Benches of Central Administrative Tribunal and High Courts, inter alia, staying letter dated 24-03-2005 and/or 18-10-2005 are in operation. Certain Benches of Central Administrative Tribunals granted interim orders for maintaining status quo ante prior to 18-10-2005. The Department of Telecommunications vide order dated 02.11.2005 has directed BSNL/MTNL to respect and implement all Court orders. BSNL/MTNL have informed that they have complied with the directions of the judicial authorities and that the concerned officers involved therein have been allowed to join back on duty.

Thus the subject matter of absorption in BSNL/MTNL and of repatriation of Group A officers of Indian Telecom Service (ITS) pursuant to the letters dated 24-03-2005 and/or 18-10-2005 being under adjudication by Courts of law is at present sub judice.