DoT to allow 3G video call service subject to interception

The Department of Telecom (DOT) yesterday permitted third generation (3G) video calls on mobile networks, subject to telecom operators giving an undertaking that they would provide interception capabilities by 31 July.

3G video services like video calls and video SMS services, which are projected to be a high revenue generator for telecom operators, had been put on hold by the government in December 2010 after intelligence agencies raised concerns that these services could not be monitored.

Two operators - Tata Teleservices (TTL) and Reliance Communications (RCom) have already launched 3G services across various circles, while others including Bharti and Vodafone are likely to start services soon.

These concerns put a halt on launching commercial operations of 3G video services of telecom operators like RCom, TTL and Bharti Airtel until a lawful interception mechanism was put in place, where intelligence agencies could monitor video calls on a real-time basis. (See: TTSL, RCom directed to hold back 3G services launch)

The operators had objected to ban since they had already invested billions in equipment and infrastructure for 3G services and said that they do have the technical means to monitor video calls on a real-time basis.

According to an exhaustive note prepared by the union home ministry for the DoT, a demonstration was organised by RCom, TTL and Bharti during which the law enforcement agencies pointed out that none of the operators could carry out online delivery of video call intercepts in real time.