No Unauthorized Internet Price Hikes, Warns Telecom Regulatory Body

Despite formal requests from three major mobile operators to raise internet tariffs, the Deputy Minister of Communications has warned that any unapproved increase is illegal and will be met with disciplinary action. Citing widespread user dissatisfaction over poor service quality, he argued that the current conditions do not justify an Internet price hike.

In response to a joint letter from the country's three mobile operators seeking permission to raise internet prices, Hamid Fattahi, Deputy Minister of Communications and head of the Communications Regulatory Authority, issued a firm statement rejecting the move.

Fattahi’s response reads:

1. "Any unauthorized tariff increase, without going through the proper legal process and approval by the Communications Regulatory Commission, is strictly unacceptable. Violators will face serious consequences."
2. "At present, the low quality of internet services has led to significant public dissatisfaction. This makes it very difficult for any price increase to gain public support."
3. "Although household expenses have risen across the board in recent years, the government’s longstanding policy of suppressing internet prices is a key reason behind the imbalance between growing demand and declining network quality."
4. "Given how deeply internet access is woven into daily life, any policy decision must prioritize public welfare and avoid imposing unreasonable costs on users."

The statement concluded by noting that the operators' request is currently under review in coordination with relevant authorities, and the outcome will be announced once a decision is made.