TRAI's New AI Guidelines: Telecom Companies to Be Responsible for AI Failures

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) proposed new standards that would hold telecom companies responsible for the artificial intelligence (AI) systems they use. According to the new rules, corporations will be held accountable if an AI tool causes difficulties with mobile networks, broadband services, or users, even if the technology was provided by an outside vendor.

The draft rules were released on October 30, 2026, and TRAI is accepting feedback from stakeholders until November 27. The rules are directed at telecom businesses that are already using AI or want to incorporate it into their operations.

Under the proposed framework, telecom operators would need to create an AI policy approved by their board. They would also have to maintain a record of all AI systems they use and classify them as high, medium or low risk, depending on their possible impact on networks, businesses and customers. Before introducing a new AI system or making major changes to an existing one, companies would need to test it for accuracy, safety and reliability. Human supervision would also be required to make sure important decisions are not left entirely to machines.

TRAI also wants operators to maintain records of AI-related failures and take action when something goes wrong. Serious incidents, especially those that could affect network services or customers, would need to be reported to the regulator within the required time. The draft also proposes an AI Governance and Safety Committee in every telecom company. A senior executive would lead this committee and monitor AI systems, review problems and ensure that companies take corrective action when needed.

Many telecom operators use AI tools developed by outside companies. However, TRAI's proposal makes it clear that responsibility will remain with the licensed telecom operator, whether the AI system is developed internally or purchased from another company. Companies would also need to check their suppliers and ensure that contracts include proper security, compliance and accountability measures.

Telecom companies such as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel already use AI for customer support, fraud detection and network management. If TRAI finalises these guidelines, operators may need stronger checks and monitoring systems.

For customers, the proposed rules could bring better protection, clearer complaint processes and greater accountability when AI systems cause problems. However, these are still draft guidelines, and the final rules will depend on the feedback received by TRAI.

This article is based on information from Gadgets Now