Maximizing Your Mobile Connections in India: What You Need to Know
In India, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has set clear guidelines on the number of mobile connections an individual subscriber can hold. This ensures not only the security of the telecom network but also the personal safety of each subscriber. Here’s everything you need to know about mobile connections, reporting unnecessary connections, and the verification process.
Maximum Number of Mobile Connections
In India, an individual subscriber can have a maximum of nine mobile connections across all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs). However, this limit is reduced to six connections for subscribers residing in the regions of Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and the North Eastern states. This restriction is implemented to prevent misuse and ensure that each connection is accounted for.
Reporting Unnecessary or Unauthorized Mobile Connections
If you find mobile connections in your name that you do not require or did not acquire, you can easily report them using the Sanchar Saathi portal. Here’s how:
- Visit the Sanchar Saathi portal and log in using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Review the list of mobile connections under your name.
- If you identify any connections that are not yours or are no longer needed, select the option ‘This is not my number’ or ‘Not required’ against each respective connection.
- Submit your report by clicking the ‘Report’ button.
What Happens After Reporting?
Once a mobile connection is reported as ‘This is not my number’ or ‘Not Required’, it is flagged for re-verification by the service provider. This is a crucial step to ensure that only the rightful owner holds the connection.
The Re-Verification Process
The re-verification process involves confirming the subscriber’s identity with the records held by the service provider. This may involve comparing the subscriber’s photograph and Proof of Identity (PoI) with existing records. It’s important to note that the subscriber does not need to submit the same PoI document used during the initial acquisition of the mobile connection; any valid PoI document can be submitted.
Timelines for Re-Verification
Once a mobile SIM is flagged for re-verification on the Sanchar Saathi portal, the following timelines are applicable:
- Outgoing services will be suspended within 30 days.
- Incoming services will be suspended within 45 days.
- Disconnection of the mobile connection will occur within 60 days if it fails re-verification.
Exceptions are made for subscribers on international roaming, those with physical disabilities, or those hospitalized, with an additional 30 days granted for each activity.
Proof of Identity (PoI) and Proof of Address (PoA) Documents
For acquiring a new mobile connection or during re-verification, subscribers must provide valid PoI and PoA documents. The list of approved documents can be found on the relevant link provided by the service provider or the DoT.
Consequences of Failing Re-Verification
If a mobile connection fails the re-verification process, it will be disconnected by the service provider.
Non-Transferability of Mobile Connections
Mobile connections are non-transferable between individuals. However, changes in the name between blood relatives or legal heirs are permitted with a no-objection certificate from the existing subscriber and by submitting a new Customer Acquisition Form (CAF). In such cases, a new SIM card is issued.
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) and Re-Verification
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) cannot be initiated for SIMs flagged for re-verification. The re-verification process must be completed before MNP can be processed.
Exceeding the Limit on Mobile Connections
If a subscriber has more mobile connections than the limit prescribed by the DoT, the service provider will disconnect the connections activated chronologically beyond the allowed limit.
Legal Action for Forged Documents
Acquiring mobile connections using forged documents is a serious offense. If a subscriber is found guilty of this, a police complaint or FIR will be lodged against them.
Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to the guidelines for mobile connections in India is crucial for maintaining your telecom security. Always ensure that the connections in your name are valid and report any discrepancies promptly through the Sanchar Saathi portal. By doing so, you can safeguard your identity and avoid unnecessary complications with your mobile services.