Pricing Puzzle: Probe Demanded Over Alleged Overcharging on Mobile Data Packs

Allegations have surfaced regarding excessive charges on mobile internet packages sold through third-party platforms like bKash, with prices reportedly exceeding the rates approved by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, disclosed the discrepancies in a post titled "Mobile Package Overcharging: A Call for Regulatory Audit and Consumer Protection." He highlighted significant differences between the prices listed in mobile operator apps and those charged via external platforms.

Taiyeb posted a screenshot on Facebook suggesting that the SIM involved was from Airtel, now merged with Robi. Referring to the data packages, he wrote that in many instances, the packages were sold at rates 20% to 80% higher than the approved prices. For example, a 30-day 45GB data pack priced at BDT 497 in the operator's app was being sold at BDT 598 through bKash—an increase of 20%.

Responding to the allegations, Shamsuddin Haider Dalim, Head of Corporate Communications and PR at bKash, stated:
"All packages and prices for mobile recharges on the bKash platform are determined by the respective telecom service providers. As a payment service provider, bKash merely facilitates payments for the customers."

On the other hand, Robi Axiata’s Company Secretary and Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer, Shahed Alam, expressed surprise over the issue.
"We are deeply surprised by the post and subsequent media coverage regarding data package pricing, as we were not consulted or given a chance to clarify before the reports were published, which is unfortunate," he said.
He added, "The confusion seems to stem from a lack of understanding of the regulatory framework. We firmly state that all our tariffs fall within BTRC-approved limits. Differentiated bonus offers across mobile apps, MFS, and web portals are made in compliance with regulations. We are fully willing to cooperate with any necessary investigation to clear up any misunderstandings.”