It is surprising and alarming that the USO Fund Organisation is opposing the recommendation of  the TRAI for subsidising  the BSNL for its loss making landline operations. It is well-known that BSNL is operating its landline connections with huge loss since it has to maintain the connections accordance with the policy of the government to provide universal service in the villages and remote localities. In fact, as per the answer given by the Communications Minister in the Parliament, BSNL has sought for Rs. 9306 crores per annum support from USOF towards the Rural Direct Exchange Lines on expiry of the present Rs. 2000 crore paid till 2011. TRAI has only recommended Rs. 1500 crores for 2011-12 and Rs. 1250 crores for 2012-13. Now the USOF is even opposing this meagre amount.

We have to express our strong protest against this injustice. DOT is going to take decision on the matter of subsidy to BSNL probably today. We have demanded the DOT that the opinion of the  USOF  should be dismissed and adequate subsidy to be given to BSNL to run its operations. We have also  demanded the BSNL management to put pressure on its demand for subsidy. We have also sought a meeting with the DOT in the matter.