Government’s Threat of Legal Action Causes Trouble for PTA & Telcos

The dispute over the blocking of SIMs continues with PTA & Telcos deciding not to comply with the government’s order. In a shocking response, FBR is considering taking legal action against the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and telecom operators for not following its orders to block mobile phone SIMs of nonfilers, according to a credible source.

Sources said if the PTA and telecom companies fail to block the SIMs by May 15, the FBR will pursue legal action, with plans to file a petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC). FBR will also be joined by the Finance Ministry officials in pursuing legal action against the telecom companies and PTA.

It is pertinent to mention here that both the PTA and telcos haven’t complied with the order for over 10 days now. They have asserted that the SIM blocking order is a direct violation of fundamental civil rights and exceeds their jurisdiction.

Along with the legal action, the government is considering to impose additional taxes on non-filers. It includes a 2.5% additional withholding tax on non-filers SIMs, along with more taxes on mobile and data load transactions.