Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has failed to get security clerance from security agencies for its monitoring equipment installed in the International Long Distance Network, a glitch that may further delay the PSU's ILD entry.
BSNL is yet to get security clearance from Intelligence Bureau. They had installed the monitoring equipment which was not up to the mark as per IB standards, official sources said, adding the equipment did not have ceratin functionality.
BSNL officials said they get the equipment through TCIL and after the IB raised certain points, the PSU is in the process of installing fresh equipment that would meet IB standards.
Seven months ago, BSNL was pulled up by Department of Telecommunication for failing to install the designated monitoring equipment for its International Long Distance services.
All international long distance operators have to install a Lawful Interception and Monitoring Equipment for ILD Network to adhere to the licensing norms on security point of view.
LIM equipment helps security agencies to legally monitor and electronically intercept data and voice as is defined by them.
"BSNL had not offered Lawful Interception Monitoring Equipment to be installed under its ILD licence so far. It may not be out of context to mention that BSNL is providing ILD service. Delay in provisioning of such equipment is not only against the Licence Agreement but even leave a doubt on security," DoT had said in a sternly-worded letter to BSNL.
The monitoring equipment should be offered for introspection by the security agency without further delay, it said. Installation of LIME is mandatory under ILD license conditions and any move to avoid it is a violation of the terms and conditions of licence.
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