The first meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) on ‘Revival of BSNL & MTNL’ met yesterday, 12th June 2013, and started discussion in the matter. DOT, BSNL and MTNL are reported to have submitted its presentations on the present situation of the two companies and the reasons for the decline of services and revenues.

It is reported that the DOT requested for the refund of the charges of Rs. 12,846 crore for the BWA spectrum which has been surrendered by the companies. The liability of MTNL for the pension coming to about Rs. 7500 crore was also pointed out. BSNL and MTNL Managements are also reported to have represented their case for financial support.

The Forum of BSNL Unions & Associations have already submitted a detailed Memorandum to the GoM on how the BSNL can be revived. Forum has also sought a meeting with the GoM and its  Chairman, Finance Minister P.Chidambaram.

Forum has called upon all the Circle / District Secretaries to meet the Member/s of Parliament in their area and furnish the Memorandum to them with the request to take up the matter with the government to ensure financial support and preference to the BSNL. This is to be taken seriously and with implemented effectively and reported to Forum General Secretaries.