Airtel vs Tejas Networks: 4G Tower Dispute in Rajasthan Sparks Allegations

A dispute has emerged between two telecom giants, Airtel and Tejas Networks, over 4G network operations in Rajasthan, with BSNL’s 4G towers at the center of the controversy.

The Allegations

Airtel has alleged that BSNL’s 4G towers, equipped with radio devices provided by Tejas Networks, are of substandard quality. According to Airtel, the signals from these towers are interfering with its own network, causing poor connectivity and service issues for users in the region. Airtel has formally requested Tejas Networks to install additional filters in the BSNL towers to prevent interference and ensure smooth network performance for its subscribers.

Tejas Networks’ Response

Tejas Networks has strongly denied the allegations, stating that the reported issues are not due to their equipment. Instead, the company claims that Airtel’s towers are located too close to BSNL sites, leading to signal interference. Tejas also refutes claims that their filters are defective, explaining that the installed filters are designed for the 800 MHz band and function properly within the 869–889 MHz range.

Technical Context

The dispute highlights a technical challenge: out-of-band emissions and coupling losses. Airtel contends that Tejas’s filters are inadequately designed to prevent interference, while Tejas maintains that the proximity of Airtel and BSNL towers is the real cause of the problem.

BSNL’s 4G network, built entirely on indigenous technology, is part of India’s effort to develop a self-reliant telecom ecosystem. The current conflict has drawn attention to the growing pains in integrating new technologies while ensuring network quality for all operators.

Current Status

The disagreement between Airtel and Tejas Networks continues to escalate, with both companies publicly defending their positions. Meanwhile, end users in Rajasthan continue to experience connectivity issues, and it remains unclear what immediate solutions will be implemented to resolve the interference problem.