It is expected that the government will have to refund all of BSNL's money for the 3G spectrum.

The state-owned communication company had deposited the fee for the 3G and wireless broadband spectrum.

While according to sources, BSNL has not yet made any formal request to the ministry for a deferred payment; informal negotiations between the two are going on.

However, such a move is believed to be under consideration as a means to stabilize the finances of the ailing operator.

The auction for 3G spectrum and WiMAX will get over this week. After the auction, it is expected that the government will charge BSNL around $2 billion-$ 3 billion for using the 3G frequencies.

The telecom major was awarded with the third generation spectrum and WiMAX frequencies last year itself.

As per the current terms of the impending auctions, BSNL has to match the price offered by the highest bidder for both 3G and WiMAX spectrum.

BSNL is currently suffering from falling profits and there is news that the government will soon move ahead for its disinvestment.