Govt open to talks on AGR relief for Vi

SC agrees to hear telco's fresh plea

- URVI MALVANIA

SOME RELIEF ON the adjusted gross revenue (AGR) front looked possible for Vodafone Idea on Friday, with the Supreme Court agreeing to hear its plea against a fresh demand of ₹9,450 crore from the department of telecommunications (DoT) on September 26 and the government not opposing the company's petition.

This marks a departure from earlier proceedings, when in May the apex court had dismissed pleas by Vodafone Idea and its peers seeking waiver of interest and penalties on AGR dues.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre before a bench led by Chief Justice B R Gavai, along with Justices K Vinod Chandran and N V Anjaria, requested adjournment, stressing that discussions were underway to find a way forward given that the government now holds a near-50% stake in Vodafone Idea.