The top court added that the it would not have any issues if the government decided to extend any relief to these telcos. "If the government wants to help you, we are not coming in the way," said Justice Pardiwala.

The Indian government has turned down Vodafone Idea's latest request for relief on its adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues, just days after the debt-laden telecom operator filed a fresh petition before the Supreme Court.

Vodafone Idea, which owes ₹83,400 crore in AGR dues, had sought a waiver on ₹45,000 crore comprising interest, penalty, and interest on penalty. Bharti Airtel and its unit Bharti Hexacom sought relief on ₹34,