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by Chamitha Kuruppu

Discussions are under way between the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (TRC) and Mobitel Private Limited following a decision by the TRC that call rates to be introduced by Mobitel consequent to launch of GSM technology early this week were allegedly 'illegal', sources told the Daily News yesterday.

They said that Mobitel has not consulted the TRC before announcing new packages, that even included free incoming calls during two months promotional period.

It is believed that several leading mobile telecommunication operators are against the new packages to be introduced by Mobitel.TRC Director General Themiya Hurulle refused to comment saying 'the TRC is still working on the matter'.

Mobitel Chief Executive Officer Lalith de Silva was not available for comment. However, a senior official attached to the company said there was a dispute in the procedure and they hope to resolve it soon.

Asked whether Mobitel would suspend the new packages until the two parties resolve the dispute the official said they will continue with their scheduled campaign. "why should we suspend those packages if they are not illegal," the official queried. Mobitel, a 100 per cent owned subsidiary of Sri Lanka Telecom early this week launched its state-of-art GSM network with 'EDGE' technology - the latest technology enhancement available for deployment in GSM.

Mobitel has invested nearly Rs 20 billion to upgrade technology and network over the next three years. During the two-month promotional period Mobitel will offer free incoming calls as well as 11 minutes free for outgoing calls. All Mobitel packages will include free caller identification facilities and many other value added services.

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