July 16: B-mobile launched a new scheme on Monday. Known as the centenary celebration scheme, it offers prepaid users more talk time every time they recharge the voucher. The scheme will be available from July 14 till September end.

Tashi Cell has complained that the move is against the regulation set by Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA). Tashi Cell, the only private mobile service provider says it has faced a lot of problems ever since its launch due to stiff competition from the already established Bhutan Telecom’s B-Mobile.

The Executive Director of Tashi Cell, Tashi Tshering said though there is a regulation placed by BICMA which does not allow B Mobile to reduce its tariff it has done so a few times.

BICMA is applying what is known as the asymmetric regulation on B-Mobile. Under this regulation, the tariff cannot be revised for at least six months. B-Mobile has last revised their tariff in February. This is being done to protect and support Tashi Cell which is new in the market against the better established B-Mobile.

BICMA officials said they have received a verbal complaint and are looking into the matter.

Tashi Cell launched its operation in April.

Meanwhile, the General Manager of B-Mobile Tandin Wangchuk said the centenary celebration scheme is a promotional activity and a free gift. He said they have not touched the tariff.

Tandin Wangchuk also said they have not received any official notification about the asymmetric regulation from BICMA. He said there is no documentation about the regulation what so ever.