Moodubidire: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plays a crucial role in safeguarding consumer rights, and customers can ensure better services only when they are aware of their rights and file complaints responsibly, said Somashekhar V.K., Founder and Chief Patron of the Federation of Karnataka Consumer and Voluntary Organizations.
He was speaking at a consumer awareness program jointly organized by the Consumer & Voluntary Organisations of Karnataka, and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, held at V.S. Acharya Auditorium of Alva’s Education Foundation.
Addressing students, Somashekhar explained various issues in telecommunication services, including network problems, slow internet connectivity, excess charges, unauthorized SIM activation, KYC-related complications, and delays in mobile number portability. He also elaborated on key rights provided under TRAI, such as the right to quality service and the right to receive accurate billing. Consumers can block spam calls and messages by dialing 1909 and activating the DND service, he added.
He also stressed that customers have the right to port their mobile numbers without changing the number. Under the Consumer Protection Regulations 2012, provisions related to quality service and number portability were highlighted.
Somashekhar informed that users of Jio, Airtel and VI may lodge complaints by calling 198, while BSNL users can contact 1500. Saving the complaint number is essential, and unresolved issues may first be escalated to the nodal officer and then to higher authorities, who generally resolve cases within 45 days. He cautioned students not to share OTPs under any circumstances, to verify recharge plans before making payments, and to switch networks if service quality remains unsatisfactory.
Speaking on the rise of cybercrimes, Cyber Crime Police Sub Inspector Prathibha C, said that spreading awareness is the most effective way to curb the alarming increase in digital fraud cases. With widespread mobile and internet use, cybercrimes such as fraudulent transactions have become more prevalent across the country, he added.
The program was inaugurated by Mulki–Moodbidri MLA Umanath Kotian. Federation office-bearer Vidya, Alva’s PU College Principal Prof. Sadakath, and Vice-Principal Jhansi present among others.