Regulation Overview: On March 14, 2024, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) announced the Telecommunication Mobile Number Portability (MNP) (ninth amendment) Regulations, 2024. These regulations are set to combat the fraudulent practices associated with SIM swaps and replacements, effectively enhancing the security of mobile number portability (MNP).
Effective Date: The new regulations will be implemented starting from July 1, 2024.
Amendment Details:
- Legislative Basis: The amendment revises the MNP Regulations of 2009, utilizing the authority granted by section 36 and various clauses of section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997.
- Key Provisions:
- Prohibition on Immediate Porting:
- Telecom operators are barred from issuing a “Unique Porting Code (UPC)” immediately after a SIM card is swapped or replaced. This code is essential for transferring a mobile number to a new service provider.
- Mandatory Waiting Period:
- A mandatory 7-day waiting period is now required before porting can occur if a SIM card is swapped or replaced. UPCs will not be issued if requested within this period.
- Exemption for SIM Upgrades:
- The restriction does not apply to users who are upgrading their SIM cards; these users can still port immediately.
- Prohibition on Immediate Porting:
Context and Background:
- MNP Framework:
- Initially launched in Haryana in November 2010 and fully implemented across India by July 2015, MNP allows users to retain their mobile numbers when switching telecom operators.
- TRAI’s Role:
- As the regulatory authority established in 1997, TRAI oversees India’s telecommunication industry, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks aimed at protecting consumer interests.
Agency Details:
- Chairman: Anil Kumar Lahoti
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
These amendments by TRAI are designed to safeguard consumers against the rising incidents of telecom fraud, particularly those involving SIM card manipulations, and to ensure a more secure and reliable process for mobile number portability.
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