TRAI Directs Jio to End “Discriminatory” Tariff Rules by April 14

Chandani — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:25:00 +0000

TRAI Directs Jio to End Discriminatory Tariff Practices by April 14

Now the telecom office protects all mobile users. Specifically, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) sent a stern order to Reliance Jio. Indeed, the office found that some Jio plans are not fair. Therefore, the company must change its sales rules by April 14, 2026. In fact, this move makes all plans easy to find for everyone. Simple as that.

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TRAI vs. Jio: Two Major Issues

Now you see why the office dislikes the current setup. Actually, the office began the probe in August 2025. In fact, here is the data on the flagged moves.

Flagged Issue	TRAI’s Main Concern	The Required Fix
Selective Access	Plans exist only on MyJio or in Stores	Make available on ALL platforms
Device Locking	Cheap plans exist only for JioPhones	Open plans for ALL devices
Transparency	Jio hides Special Vouchers (STVs)	Full public disclosure
User Choice	Jio forces users into its ecosystem	Freedom to switch or port

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Concerns Over Limited Plan Availability

Now TRAI finds that some “hidden” plans remain closed to all. Actually, Jio sells certain cheap prepaid plans in only a few places.

The Access Gap

First, the office found that Jio keeps some special vouchers only at stores. Next, Jio puts other plans only on the MyJio app. Thus, users without the app miss the best deals. Furthermore, TRAI says this breaks a rule from 2020. Specifically, Jio must put every plan on the shop, site, and app at once. Therefore, Jio must unify its list of plans today. Period.

Device-Based Plans Under Scrutiny

Now the office looks at plans tied to certain phones. Actually, this refers to plans for JioPhone and JioBharat users.

The Lock-in Problem

First, these cheap phones offer very low data prices. Next, Jio does not offer these prices to people with other phones. Thus, TRAI calls this move “unfair” to other smartphone users. Additionally, the office fears this “locks” you into one brand for years. Moreover, this makes it hard for you to switch to BSNL or Airtel. Overall, the price of a plan should not depend on your phone brand.

Jio’s Defense and the April 14 Deadline

Now Reliance Jio shared its own view with the office. Actually, the company says its pricing follows all the legal rules.

The Legal Clash

First, Jio argued that they make plans for specific types of users. Next, they said the rules only cover how they print plans. Thus, TRAI rejected this idea. Furthermore, the office says that “seeing” a plan and “buying” it are the same thing. Specifically, Jio must open all plans by April 7-14. Therefore, look for a new list of open plans very soon. Period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the cheap JioPhone plans go away?

Now, no. TRAI wants those plans to stay. Thus, Jio just needs to open them to everyone.

Q: Can I get JioBharat plans on my iPhone now?

Actually, after April 14, Jio must make these offers open to all phones. Therefore, you may see more budget picks.

Q: Why does TRAI act now?

Actually, they found that hidden plans confuse many millions of people. Thus, they use “Fair Play” rules.

Q: What if Jio does not listen?

Since TRAI holds the power to fine, Jio faces huge daily costs. Therefore, they will likely follow the order.

The Bottom Line

Now the TRAI Order of April 2026 is a big win for you. While Jio defended its path, the office wants total clarity.

Overall, making all plans open leads to better prices for all. Therefore, check the MyJio app after April 14 for new deals. Thus, you can pick the best plan for any phone you own. Meanwhile, keep checking our blog for more news on 5G rates. Lastly, we hope for a fairer mobile market for India!

Fair plans. Open access. Period.

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