DoT in the Pre-Bid Q&A clarifies that any Spectrum Won in an Auction is Truly Liberalized.
What does DoT mean by Spectrum in 1800Mhz & 800Mhz being Liberalized ?
Telecom Operators may use the allocated spectrum bands for deploying services in the following technologies GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE and WiMAX without any restriction [Voice, 3G or LTE Data Services, Data Application Services, etc] . For anything else prior clearance will be required. Introduction of any new technology should not cause harmful interference to the already operating technologies either in the same band or in the adjacent bands.
For Example, Winner of 800MHz Spectrum may use the same along with 2.3GHz BWA Spectrum to Offer Wireless LTE Broadband Services. Or a new operator may come and deploy Mobile Broadband Services in 1800MHz [some deployments have started] provided they meet spectrum roll-out obligations.
Liberalized Spectrum Can be Shared
Operators whose entire spectrum holding in a particular band (900 / 1800 & 800 MHz) is / has been liberalised, would be permitted to share spectrum without any additional onetime spectrum charge. Detailed guidelines regarding sharing of spectrum and one time charges payable for liberalizing spectrum currently held would be issued in due course.
Is Existing Spectrum with Operators Liberalized or Not ?
DoT Sticks to its stance – Only the spectrum allotted through this auction is considered liberalized spectrum. Existing operators are left in a limbo even though they have an Order from the TDSAT [PDF] stating that all spectrum is liberalized.
The Government of India is severely paralyzed when it comes to Telecom Policies and Reforms and is least bothered about the sector as it is chaired by an incompetent person, Mr. Kapil Sibal known for his Zero Loss Theory in 2G Spectrum Scam. Not clarifying severely affects operators services and plans.
Stay tuned more updates coming on the auction.