DoT asks Bharti, Tata Tele, RCom and Vodafone to disclose accounting details to CAG

The department of telecommunications (DoT) has directed five telecom operators including Bharti to provide accounting details for three years from 2006-07 to the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG). Bharti Airtel, Reliance Communications, Vodafone Essar,  and Tata Teleservices have been directed to furnish the details in the next 15 days.

The apex audit body had earlier decided to audit the accounts of leading telecom operators.

In its 11 March communication, DoT has asked for details including total cost and breakup of original and current cost, breakup of operational expenses and total income from other sources amongst others.

Tata Teleservices has confirmed the development saying it had received the letter which had been sent to other operators as well. The company added that it would provide the required information when it is sought and cooperate with the auditor.

The move follows the DoT's decision last year ordering an independent special audit of the companies to probe alleged evasion of licence fees to the government. RCom and Bharti have already submitted the audit reports while the reports for the others are awaited this month.

DoT's action was prompted by telecom regulator, Trai, which found a hike in revenues in the long distance segment.