WhatsApp disruptions in Pakistan triggered questions from the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications last week. The Ministry of IT redirected inquiries to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for clarifications on the issue. It was noted that WhatsApp was functioning through VPNs, indicating local disruptions.
The committee emphasized the need for transparent communication with the public regarding any platform downgrades or suspensions. Plans for a 5G spectrum auction in 2025 were discussed, with recommendations to ensure quality service provision in major cities.
Additionally, the establishment of a Telecommunications Appellate Tribunal to expedite pending cases in the telecom sector was reviewed. The committee also addressed the Universal Service Fund and the need to retrieve Rs61 billion taken from it in 2015.
In a related development, the federal government removed the additional secretary for IT, Capt Muhammad Mahmood, amid allegations in the wheat import scandal.
Overall, the committee discussed various aspects of the IT and telecom sector’s development and management, ensuring accountability and quality service provision for the public.
Published in Dawn, July 24th, 2024
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