The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication has raised serious concern over litigation delays in spectrum auctions and unchecked tariff hikes by telecom operators, warning that the issues are causing significant financial losses and slowing Pakistan’s digital growth.
Chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, the Committee met at the Parliament House on Tuesday and received a detailed briefing from the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB). Officials informed that since 2021, necessary spectrum bands had been cleared in line with global 5G requirements, including 30 MHz of space, while additional bands in the 3 GHz and 24 GHz ranges had been identified. However, litigation and stay orders have stalled auctions. The Special Secretary, Ministry of IT, assured that spectrum auctions would be completed by December 2025 on the Prime Minister’s directives.
The Attorney General’s Office, PEMRA, and PTA also briefed the Committee on pending LDI/FLL cases, now shifted from the Sindh High Court to civil courts, with the next hearing due on September 17. Members emphasized that further delays would damage Pakistan’s economic and technological prospects.
The Committee also reviewed reports from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), PTA, and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on illegal call centers, software exports, and cyber fraud. Officials reported dismantling 63 illegal call centers and recovering Rs. 40 million, but warned that cybercrime continues to threaten digital trust and financial inclusion. Loan scams, gambling apps, fake news, and misinformation campaigns were identified as major risks.
Members stressed the need for stronger inter-agency coordination, AI-based early detection of cyber threats, and stricter liability for social media platforms. NCCIA was directed to present a comprehensive report on cyber-related crimes at the next meeting.
A briefing from the Auditor General’s Office accused Jazz of overcharging consumers by Rs. 6.58 billion, raising tariffs by up to 15 percent quarterly without PTA approval. Committee members criticized weak regulatory oversight and directed PTA and the Auditor General’s Office to submit full records for review.
The Committee also took up the issue of spectrum allegedly under illegal use by China Mobile, with 6.6 MHz in the 1800 MHz band stuck in litigation despite a Supreme Court ruling in PTA’s favor. Members condemned delaying tactics in lower courts and decided to summon the Law Division to explain the tribunal’s inaction.
Additionally, the Committee expressed displeasure at the non-submission of details of Ufone’s Board of Directors, including names, designations, and remuneration. The Chairperson cautioned that a privilege motion may be considered if the information is withheld further.
The meeting was attended by Senators Anusha Rehman Ahmad Khan, Pervaiz Rashid, Dr. Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan, Saifullah Sarwar Khan Nyazee, Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, the Special Secretary of the IT Ministry, and senior officials from relevant departments.