In the ongoing debate around the proposed Pakistan Telecommunication Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, the government has clarified that the rights of private property owners will be fully protected and that legal procedures will be necessary for any telecom project.
One provision of the bill, Section 27B, has been the most discussed in recent days. Critics said that under this provision, the government or telecom companies can get extraordinary powers to install infrastructure on private lands. However, government representatives are rejecting this impression.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar has said that the government’s aim is not to seize anyone’s property but to develop a clear legal framework for the expansion of telecom and fibre networks. According to him, it is necessary to obtain the consent of the concerned owner and fulfil the legal requirements before starting work on private property.
The IT Ministry has also faced criticism on this issue in recent days. The ministry clarified that property owners will have full rights to raise objections, set conditions and seek appropriate compensation.
Telecom companies are of the view that reforms in the current system are necessary for the expansion of digital infrastructure in the country. According to the Telecom Operators Association, the real challenge is not private owners but the delay in obtaining permits from some administrative bodies and housing societies.
Industry representatives say that rapid expansion of fibre networks is necessary for the promotion of online services, digital businesses, e-commerce and modern technology in the future. According to them, clear rules and regulations can improve the investment climate.
On the other hand, the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom has expressed reservations over some provisions of the bill. Committee members believe that the inclusion of telecom towers in the law related to fibreisation has created a need for further clarification.
For this purpose, the government has formed a special parliamentary committee that is reviewing all objections and suggestions. According to government officials, if necessary, further amendments will be made to the bill to maintain a proper balance between digital development and civil rights.
Experts say that improving the internet and broadband infrastructure in Pakistan is important for economic development, but transparent legislation will be indispensable to maintain public confidence in the process. This is why the current parliamentary review is being described as important for future digital policy.
