Nation Bill Delayed Again by IT Committee
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology has once again delayed the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill. The meeting, chaired by Federal IT Minister Syed Aminul Haq, discussed various issues related to internet services and the bill. Sharmila Farooqi, a committee member, expressed her frustration over the government’s failure to improve internet speed, despite previous claims of progress. The committee decided to postpone the bill’s review until the next session, where input from members of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and other political parties will be considered.
Opposition Leader’s Concerns About Internet Shutdowns
Opposition Leader Omar Ayub accused secret agencies of causing internet shutdowns, which he claimed were leading to significant economic losses. He also highlighted that Pakistan continues to have one of the lowest internet speeds in the world. Ayub criticized the government’s handling of internet issues, demanding accountability from Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) officials. Committee member Romina Khurshid Alam emphasized the importance of monitoring national security concerns, urging the need for proper oversight.
PTA Chairman Defends Internet Shutdowns
PTA Chairman Hafeez-ur-Rehman defended the agency’s actions, stating that internet shutdowns occur based on instructions from the court, federal government, or Ministry of Interior. He also pointed out the lack of new submarine cables in Pakistan over the past decade and questioned how funds generated from the telecommunications sector were spent. Rehman’s statements highlighted the ongoing concerns about Pakistan’s internet infrastructure.
Government’s Response to Security and Internet Issues
State Minister for IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, acknowledged the security challenges but assured the committee that internet issues had been resolved. She noted that Pakistan had exported $1.5 billion in the past month, emphasizing the importance of a stable internet for the economy. Khawaja also mentioned ongoing talks with Starlink to provide satellite internet to Pakistan.
Committee Calls for Accountability
The committee decided to summon key officials, including the Secretary of Interior and Chairman Pasha, to address VPN-related issues and broader internet disruptions. The nation bill was delayed again as the committee plans to hold future sessions to tackle these concerns.
