Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA Chairman Calls for Legal Clarity on Internet Access Restrictions)

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Calls for Legal Clarity on Internet Access Restrictions

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman, Retired Maj-Gen Hafeezur Rehman, has acknowledged that internet access restrictions in the country occupy a ‘legal grey area.’ During a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology, Rehman highlighted the need for decisive legal interpretation and urged clarity from the ministries of law and interior.

Internet shutdowns have been a recurring issue in Pakistan since 2016, with the Ministry of Interior often prompting these actions. However, questions about the legality of such shutdowns have only recently come to the forefront, prompting concerns from Senate committee members.

Senators Kamran Murtaza and Humayun Mohmand raised doubts about the legal backing for blocking internet services and social media platforms, questioning the PTA’s authority under existing laws. Rehman explained that while current regulations allow content blocking at the Ministry of Interior’s request, they do not specifically cover regional internet shutdowns.

The committee also discussed the need for infrastructure upgrades to improve internet speeds, with Senator Palwasha Khan emphasizing the importance of expanding the fiber optic network. Rehman stressed the significance of ‘fiberisation’ for enhancing infrastructure and speed.

In addressing VPN restrictions, Rehman clarified that he had not halted their service but had initiated licensing procedures for VPN providers. Two companies have already applied for licenses, and a new service provider licensing category has been introduced to tackle unregistered VPN issues.

Furthermore, updates on social media content regulation were provided, with the PTA receiving around 500 daily complaints regarding harmful content. Rehman highlighted the enforcement challenges faced in collaboration with social media companies.

The Senate committee pushed for clear legal directives on internet governance, content blocking, and agency roles in digital service management. The need for a transparent legal framework for internet access restrictions and infrastructure improvements was underscored throughout the briefing.

Overall, the call for legal clarity on internet access restrictions and the push for infrastructure upgrades highlight the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan in managing its digital landscape.