IT Minister Shaza Fatima Defends Telecom Amendment Bill, Promises Review of Concerns

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has said that the government is committed to addressing concerns related to the Telecom Reorganization Amendment Bill while ensuring the expansion of digital infrastructure across the country.

Speaking to journalists at Parliament, the minister explained that the proposed legislation had been presented before the Senate Standing Committee in line with democratic traditions. She emphasized that the government had followed the proper legislative process and had not rushed the bill through Parliament.

IT Minister Shaza Fatima Defends Telecom Amendment Bill, Promises Review of Concerns

According to Shaza Fatima, the bill remained in the National Assembly for nearly six months before being taken forward. She rejected claims that the government was attempting to expedite the legislation without consultation, stating that lawmakers had been given sufficient time to review and discuss its provisions.

The minister highlighted the importance of improving Pakistan’s telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in preparation for the rollout of 5G services. She said that after the auction of the 5G spectrum, significant efforts would be required to expand fiber-optic networks across the country. This process, known as fiberization, is considered essential for supporting faster internet speeds and reliable connectivity.

Shaza Fatima noted that the government faces a dual responsibility. On one hand, it must protect the property rights of citizens as elected representatives. On the other hand, it must ensure that modern digital services and high-speed internet reach every corner of the country. She stressed that expanding fiber-optic connectivity is critical to achieving the government’s vision of digital inclusion.

The minister also revealed that a special committee headed by the Law Minister has been reviewing concerns raised about the bill. The committee has been tasked with examining objections and identifying areas that require clarification or revision. Its recommendations are expected to be presented to the Prime Minister for further consideration.

According to Shaza Fatima, some of the concerns relate to the legal and technical language used in the proposed legislation. She assured stakeholders that these issues would be addressed to remove ambiguity and improve the bill’s overall clarity. The government, she said, is open to constructive feedback and is committed to refining the legislation where necessary.

See Also: Major Changes Proposed to Telecom Reorganization Bill After Public Backlash

The debate surrounding the Telecom Reorganization Amendment Bill has attracted attention due to its potential impact on the country’s telecommunications sector and future digital development. Supporters argue that the legislation could help facilitate infrastructure growth and support emerging technologies, while critics have called for greater safeguards and clearer wording in certain provisions.

As Pakistan prepares for the next phase of its digital transformation, the government continues to balance infrastructure development with public concerns. The recommendations of the committee and the Prime Minister’s response are expected to play a key role in determining the future direction of the proposed telecom reforms.

With 5G services on the horizon and increasing demand for reliable internet access, policymakers face the challenge of creating a framework that encourages technological progress while protecting the rights and interests of citizens.