Why Is Pakistan Rushing Telecom Law Changes? Heated Debate Erupts at NA Meeting
A meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology witnessed a heated debate as lawmakers discussed proposed amendments to the Pakistan Telecommunication Act, raising questions over the speed and intent behind the changes.
The session was held under the chairmanship of Syed Amin-ul-Haq and focused on reviewing amendments aimed at updating the country’s telecom regulatory framework. The discussion reflected growing concern among committee members about transparency, consultation, and the broader impact of the proposed changes.
During the meeting, Syed Amin-ul-Haq stated that the amendments being introduced were positive and necessary to align the law with evolving technological and regulatory needs. He emphasized that taking Parliament along in the legislative process is a democratic practice and that the committee’s role was central to ensuring oversight.
However, several members expressed reservations over the pace at which the amendments were being pushed. Questions were raised about whether sufficient stakeholder consultation had taken place, particularly with telecom operators, consumer groups, and digital rights experts.
Some lawmakers cautioned that rushing changes to such a critical law could have long-term implications for competition, data governance, and regulatory independence. They stressed that telecom legislation directly affects millions of users and billions of rupees in investment.
Officials present at the meeting defended the urgency, arguing that outdated provisions in the existing law limit the government’s ability to effectively regulate modern telecom services, including emerging technologies and digital platforms.
The committee was informed that the proposed amendments seek to strengthen regulatory mechanisms, improve enforcement powers, and address gaps exposed by rapid digital transformation. Supporters of the changes argued that delays could slow sector growth and innovation.
Despite these assurances, concerns persisted about checks and balances. Some members called for the draft amendments to be shared widely before final approval, warning that legislation passed without broad consensus could face resistance later.
The debate also touched on the need to balance regulatory authority with investor confidence. Lawmakers noted that sudden or unclear legal changes could create uncertainty for telecom companies operating in Pakistan.
By the end of the meeting, the chairman reiterated that Parliament would remain actively involved and that further deliberations would take place before any final decision. He assured members that their concerns would be recorded and addressed in subsequent sessions.
The discussion highlights the sensitivity surrounding telecom reforms in Pakistan, where policy changes can directly affect connectivity, digital inclusion, and economic growth. As the process moves forward, the government faces pressure to balance urgency with transparency and trust.
