Vodafone Idea welcomed the decision and looked forward to working closely with the DoT to resolve the matter in the interests of its nearly 200 million subscribers.
The Supreme Court permitted the department of telecommunications (DoT) to take a fresh look at Vodafone Idea's adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues, citing the "peculiar facts and circumstances" of the case.
The move opens a window for the debt-laden, third-largest telecom service provider to seek a recalibration of its long-standing dues, which has weighed heavily on its financial health for years.
A bench led by Chief Justice B R Gavai said there was no reason why the Union government should be barred from reassessing the amount claimed from Vodafone Idea, especially since the issue now lies within the policy framework of the Centre.
Author's summary: Vodafone Idea gets a reprieve from the Supreme Court.