I have been a Vodafone subscriber in Mumbai for over 4 years, and have never delayed or defaulted on paying my dues. However, when I recently applied to another operator for MNP from Vodafone to XYZ operator, I was shocked to get an SMS from Vodafone that the request to port-out has been rejected due to “contractual obligations”. On checking with their Customer Care (who had a different tone for subscribers wanting to Port-out) was told that the “Contractual Obligations” in my case referred to some free minutes included in my Tariff Plan. I found it very strange, as the Tariff Plan I have opted for is a standard one, listed on their website and available to any other Vodafone subscriber.
Hence, I really didn’t see any reason for Vodafone to stall my Port-out request on such frivolous grounds. Despite taking it up with their Customer Care several times, each time I only get a new Request No. (VM232114) with an assurance that the issue will be resolved within 48 hours. I am yet to have this issue resolved, before I approach the XYZ operator once again to migrate my Vodafone number to their network. Have spoken with the Vodafone Nodal Officer’s office, but am yet to get their response to this issue.
I would like to know from experienced & knowledgeable persons what recourse do subscribers like myself have, if existing operator doesn’t allow Port-out on frivolous grounds.
Does TRAI offer any solution to this issue, which it would have ideally expected from big players (who would have expected many of their subscribers to Port-out, while welcoming Port-ins with open arms !!) ? I would appreciate responses to my complaint which are actionable. Thanks.