Senate Panel defers Telecom Bill 2026 approval

The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication on Tuesday held detailed deliberations on the Pakistan

The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication on Tuesday held detailed deliberations on the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organisation) Amendment Bill 2026.

The meeting was chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan and attended by senators, ministry officials, and stakeholders. The bill was introduced by IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja.

Officials said the proposed amendments aim to modernize the 1996 telecom law. The focus is on institutional reforms, expansion of digital infrastructure, and improved regulatory efficiency.

The reforms also include measures to accelerate fibre optic deployment across the country. Authorities said the objective is to strengthen internet connectivity and improve coordination between federal and provincial institutions.

Another key element of the bill relates to simplifying right-of-way permissions for telecom infrastructure. It also proposes stronger dispute resolution mechanisms to reduce delays in network expansion projects.

During the session, committee members raised serious concerns over several provisions of the draft law. Senators questioned the powers given to the “appropriate government” and the broad discretionary language used in the bill.

Members also expressed concerns about possible impacts on private property rights. They emphasized that no citizen should be compelled to allow installation of telecom infrastructure without clear legal safeguards and mutual agreement.

Lawmakers further sought clarification on land access rules for telecom towers and penalties linked to refusal of right-of-way permissions. They called for greater transparency and stronger legal protections for property owners.

In response, ministry officials assured the committee that the legislation does not permit forced acquisition or occupation of private property. They said infrastructure installation would only proceed through mutual consent, legal procedures, and proper dispute resolution mechanisms.

Officials added that hearing processes and administrative reviews have been included to ensure transparency. They also said ambiguous clauses in the draft would be reviewed and refined.

The committee was further informed that governance reforms under the bill include institutional restructuring and updated appointment procedures. Members stressed that any transitional arrangements must remain time-bound and transparent.

After detailed discussions, the committee deferred further consideration of the bill. Clause-by-clause review will continue in the next meeting.