Regulatory Notification: Satellite internet services and communication device licensing

The Posts and Telecommunications Department, under the Ministry of Transports and Communications, issued a notification on Wednesday, outlining the ministry's supervision of the engagement, use, import, and sale of communication services and devices in accordance with prescribed laws and bylaws.

The notification addressed that there are illegal provision of satellite internet services within the country. According to Section-5 of the Telecommunication Law and Section-52(c) of the Spectrum Rules, it mandates the application for licenses by entities engaging in communication services and satellite internet services.

Additionally, Section-13 of the Telecommunication Law and Section-33(a) of the Licensing Rules stipulate the need for licenses when acquiring satellite communication devices, radar communication devices, related equipment, and radio communication devices.

The notification stated that providing services, installing, keeping, and using satellite communication devices and engaging in illegal satellite communication services without the required license is prohibited. The communication law's Section-67 empowers authorities to take action against violations of this prohibition.