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NA Committee Grills Govt Over Internet Outages and Slowdowns
Frequent internet outages spark heated debates in the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT. Key officials face tough questions over disruptions impacting businesses and citizens alike.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-03
NA Committee Grills Govt Over Internet Outages and Slowdowns

The National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom held a heated session on Thursday, with government officials facing sharp criticism over persistent internet outages and slowdowns. The debate highlighted the economic and operational impacts of these disruptions, drawing attention to gaps in infrastructure and policy.

Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, defended the government’s actions, citing security concerns as a key reason for internet shutdowns. However, her assurances did little to appease parliamentarians. PPP MNA Sharmila Farooqi expressed frustration, stating, “Four meetings have been held, yet no solution has been found. Are we being misled?”

Ms. Farooqi challenged the minister’s claim that internet issues had not caused industrial losses, referencing her husband’s e-commerce business, which she claimed had suffered due to poor internet connectivity.

Committee Chairman Syed Aminul Haque echoed concerns, emphasizing the financial losses incurred by the country due to internet disruptions. “The PTA assured us that speeds would improve by October 2024, yet issues persist,” he remarked.

Causes and Consequences

PTA Chairman Maj Gen (Retd) Hafeezur Rehman attributed recent disruptions to damage in three out of seven submarine cables connecting Pakistan. He also clarified that internet blockages occur under directives from the federal government, the Ministry of Interior, or courts.

Addressing the committee, Mr. Rehman reassured members that the actions were not driven by malicious intent but highlighted a “legal grey area” that requires clarity from the law and interior ministries.

5G and Starlink Initiatives

In a bid to improve digital infrastructure, the PTA announced plans to auction the 5G spectrum in April 2025. Additionally, discussions with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service, are underway to explore innovative solutions.

Ms. Khawaja expressed optimism, stating, “The government is committed to resolving these challenges to ensure a seamless digital experience for citizens.”

PTCL and Policy Oversight

The committee also discussed the management of PTCL properties and directed the company to present a complete list of assets at the next meeting. The sale and purchase agreement between PTCL and UAE’s Etisalat will also be scrutinized to ensure compliance with national interests.

Looking Ahead

The committee plans to summon the secretaries of the law and interior ministries for further discussions on the legality and implications of internet shutdowns. Additionally, the ‘Digital Nation Pakistan Bill’ was deferred for review in the next session.

As Pakistan navigates its path to digital transformation, stakeholders continue to grapple with the dual challenges of security and connectivity, striving to strike a balance that benefits the nation’s economy and citizens alike.

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