COAI and BIF skipped TRAI's network slicing consultations, despite their prior vocal stances. This non-participation stems from deep internal disagreements among telecom operators, specifically on net neutrality implications. The deadlock threatens to leave the industry's collective voice unheard as TRAI shapes 5G policy.
How We Got Here
COAI, representing major telcos, famously reversed its stance on network slicing and net neutrality between 2022 and 2026. Initially calling network slicing a net neutrality violation in 2022, COAI later welcomed it after Airtel launched its 'Fast Lane' service in 2026.
The Numbers
- COAI represents Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea, plus infrastructure and tech giants like Ericsson, Google, and Meta.
- BIF includes Samsung, Microsoft, AWS, Netflix, Tata Communications, and PSUs like BSNL and C-DOT.
- MediaNama reports several telecom companies cited "difference of opinion" among COAI members for the non-submission.
- SP Kochhar, COAI Director General, publicly stated in 2022 that network slicing "directly negates the principles of net neutrality."
- By 2026, after Airtel's 'Priority Postpaid' (rebranded 'Fast Lane'), Kochhar said network slicing "would not violate net neutrality."
What Happens Next
🇮🇳 Why This Matters for India
For Bangalore and Delhi-based product teams building latency-sensitive applications on 5G, the lack of industry consensus on network slicing policy creates regulatory uncertainty.
The Take
The unspoken story here is how internal telco politics paralyze a critical industry body when its collective voice is most needed. Expect TRAI to push through network slicing policy with less industry alignment, leaving 5G app founders in Bangalore and Hyderabad with more regulatory ambiguity.
Source:
MediaNama ↗