Telecom operators in Pakistan came under heavy scrutiny during a Senate Standing Committee session on Information Technology and Telecommunication this week. Chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, the committee raised concerns over multiple issues ranging from overbilling and spectrum misuse to pending disputes that could delay the country’s 5G auction. Senators also pressed the ministry for greater transparency in telecom mergers, financial recoveries, and board structures, with particular focus on PTCL and its subsidiary Ufone.
The session saw sharp exchanges as the chairperson warned of filing a privilege motion against the IT ministry for withholding details of Ufone’s board. Zong was also questioned over spectrum misuse and its decision to take related matters to the Supreme Court. The committee urged the immediate activation of telecom tribunals to resolve such disputes and pledged to approach the government regarding Telenor’s planned exit from Pakistan. While PTCL has already acquired Telenor, the Competition Commission of Pakistan has not given final approval, leaving the matter unsettled. Members voiced concern that uncertainty around the deal, combined with ongoing disputes, could weaken confidence in the telecom sector.
The committee also addressed financial irregularities, with audit officials raising questions over Jazz’s recovery of Rs6.8 billion in tariffs. They noted that PTA had not produced records showing the regulator’s approval of these charges. Senator Anusha Rahman strongly criticised PTA for negligence, warning that such lapses undermine the credibility of private operators. The committee directed PTA to submit complete documentation in the next session. Broader concerns were voiced about the pace of legal proceedings, unpaid dues, and unresolved audits. PTA representatives confirmed that a consultant had been hired for the 5G auction six months ago and had recommended settling outstanding spectrum cases, including those involving Sun TV, before proceeding. They assured senators that 600 MHz of spectrum would be available and that proposals had already been forwarded to the Auction Advisory Committee and reviewed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Disputes surrounding PTCL’s $800 million outstanding dues were also discussed at length. Senator Afnanullah accused PTCL’s management of deliberately avoiding resolution, while audit officials reported that PTCL had refused oversight, citing Etisalat’s status as majority shareholder. Senators argued that this was in violation of Supreme Court directives mandating an audit. Concerns also resurfaced around the proposed Telenor-Ufone merger, with senators warning that Telenor’s departure could affect service quality. The Frequency Allocation Board confirmed telecom tribunals were set up but highlighted that appointments from the Ministry of Law were still pending.
The session extended into issues of online safety and international platforms. Senator Afnanullah accused Elon Musk of discriminatory campaigns against Pakistanis on social media and questioned whether Starlink should be allowed to operate in the country. PTA clarified that Starlink had applied for a Long-Distance International licence, which is pending clearance from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board. The committee agreed to summon the authority in the next meeting. Cybercrime threats were also tabled, with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency reporting financial fraud losses of Rs2–3 billion caused by WhatsApp hacks and illegal call centres. Officials revealed that 63 centres had been shut down, with around 60% of reported complaints linked to financial scams. Senators described these figures as alarming and demanded stronger enforcement measures to protect consumers.
This extended debate reflected deep concerns about regulatory capacity, industry practices, and investor sentiment. With Pakistan preparing for a 5G auction, senators stressed that resolving disputes, improving transparency, and enforcing cyber protections must remain central priorities.
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