A widespread claim has suggested that individuals can earn high monthly rent by allowing mobile towers to be installed on their property. However, Channeliam Fact Check has confirmed that this claim is false. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has officially warned the public against such misleading offers.
DoT and TRAI Not Involved in Tower Leasing
According to the DoT, neither it nor the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has any role in leasing or renting private properties for mobile tower installation. They also do not issue any “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) for these purposes. Any offer that claims otherwise is likely a scam.
No Advance Payment Needed for Genuine Tower Installation
Scammers often ask for advance payments under names like application fees, security deposits, stamp duty, or government tax. After collecting the money, they disappear. The DoT has made it clear that no licensed telecom operator or infrastructure provider asks for any advance money before tower installation.
How to Stay Safe
The public is advised to verify the authenticity of any company, agency, or person making such offers. Official lists of licensed Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) and Infrastructure Providers (IP-1s) are available on the DoT website:
Where to Report Fraud
If anyone encounters a suspicious offer, they should report it to local police immediately. They can also inform the nearest DoT field unit. For example, in Mumbai, the contact is:
JTO (Compliance), O/o Sr. Deputy Director General, DoT Mumbai LSA
Email: jtoc.mb-dgt-dot[at]gov[dot]in | Phone: 022-28472605Final Note
DoT has stated that any financial loss from these scams is the sole responsibility of the victim, and the government will not be liable. People are strongly advised to stay alert and verify all information through official sources.
