Government of India mandates Central Ministries, CPSEs, should utilise BSNL’s / MTNL’s internet / broadband, landline and leased lines – BSNLEU demands that mobile service should also be brought within this ambit.

The DoT, vide it’s letter dated 12^th October, 2020, has communicated the decision of the Government of India, as per which the mandatory utilisation of BSNL’s & MTNL’s network for internet / broadband, landline and leased line requirements by all Ministries / Departments of Government of India / CPSEs and Central Autonomous Bodies, has been decided. We welcome this decision, even though it is a much delayed step. BSNLEU and the joint platforms of unions and associations of BSNL have raised this demand more than a decade ago. We have to get satisfied that, it is “Better delayed then Never”. 

It is important to note that most of the Government Departments and the CPSEs are already using only BSNL's landlines, broadbands and leased circuits. Whereas, they are using mostly mobile service from private operators. Now, the government has not mandated that BSNL’s / MTNL’s mobile service should also be availed by government departments, CPSEs, etc. This is the era of mobile service and not including the same in the above mentioned order, has been done with the ulterior motive of benefiting Jio. Because, many ministries like the Railways, have already adopted Jio’s mobile service. Hence, BSNLEU demands that, mobile service should also be brought within the ambit of the above mentioned decision of the Government of India.