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The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology (IT), chaired by Syed Aminul Haque, has summoned the Minister of Interior and the Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) to address concerns related to internet disruptions and damages.
Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima, questioned the accuracy of claims regarding internet shutdowns, stating, “If the internet is completely shut down in the country, how are billions of dollars in exports being made? Disinformation is being spread, and P@SHA has provided inaccurate data regarding internet shutdowns.”
During the meeting, opposition leader Omar Ayub called for a sub-committee to address issues of internet slowdowns and shutdowns. Meanwhile, Sharmila Faruqui demanded the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Interior to discuss internet-related issues.
The committee requested an in-camera briefing from the Minister of Interior and summoned the Chairman of P@SHA for its next meeting. Sharmila Faruqui remarked, “Either we are lying, or the government is. We are not reporting the damages, but P@SHA is providing numbers. If there are security issues, just tell the truth.”
Omar Ayub questioned the accountability for internet shutdowns and suggested that PTA and other officials take an oath. Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Hafeez-ur-Rehman, asserted, “I am in a state of ablution and will speak truthfully under oath. We can block or unblock social media platforms but cannot slow them down.” He explained that such actions are undertaken under the PECA Act based on government directives and emphasized the need for digital highways to resolve internet issues.
PTCL Property and Financial Issues
The Committee expressed dissatisfaction over PTCL’s failure to provide a list of its properties despite clear directives. PTCL cited a clause in the Sales and Purchase Agreement, claiming the right to buy and sell properties. However, the Committee noted that no practical actions had been taken since 2007.
It was revealed that the Privatization Commission oversees the Sales and Purchase Agreement and all related matters. PTCL cannot sell any property without prior approval from its board. Additionally, Etisalat still owes 33% of its payment despite the government transferring property titles.
The Committee was informed of the formation of a Special Committee, led by the Finance Minister, to resolve the issue. The findings of this Special Committee and the Sales and Purchase Agreement with Etisalat are to be presented in the next meeting for further review.
Internet Challenges and Spectrum Allocation
The PTA Chairman informed the Committee that three of the country’s seven submarine cables had been damaged, causing significant internet disruptions. PTA enforces internet shutdowns based on directives from the Federal Government, Ministry of Interior, and courts during law and order situations. He assured that PTA acts responsibly and without malicious intent.
The Chairman highlighted that the allocation of 270 MHz spectrum is insufficient for a population of 240 million, leading to network congestion. However, a 5G spectrum auction scheduled for April is expected to improve the internet situation.
Additionally, he mentioned that four new submarine cables are being introduced to enhance connectivity and support the digital economy. Despite PTA’s contribution of PKR 1700 billion to the exchequer over six years, he expressed disappointment at the lack of government investment in infrastructure development.
The Committee emphasized the urgency of resolving internet-related issues, as they are causing financial losses amounting to millions of dollars. Concerns were also raised about PTA’s earlier assurance that the internet situation would improve by October 2024.
These developments underscore the need for a cohesive strategy to address internet challenges and ensure the growth of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and economy.
