Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has said the new telecom bill will not allow the forced takeover of any citizen’s private land or property.
Speaking at a press conference alongside Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Shaza Fatima said it was important to inform the public and parliament about the proposed telecom legislation.
She said the existing telecom law was no longer aligned with current technological needs and the new bill aims to improve internet access and speed across Pakistan.
The minister said it was her responsibility to ensure the availability of high-speed internet. She added that the bill remained in the National Assembly for six months and was later referred to a Senate committee, describing the process as part of democracy.
According to Shaza Fatima, the National Assembly passed the bill with six amendments. She said the legislation mainly addresses housing societies that enter into agreements and later withdraw from their commitments.
She clarified that citizens have the legal right to refuse the use of their private property for internet infrastructure.
Shaza Fatima said unnecessary allegations were made in the media against her and the IT secretary over the bill. She said she had asked the prime minister to order an inquiry into the allegations.
The minister added that they reserve the right to take legal action over financial allegations. Categories related to private properties will also be defined under the proposed framework.
She said the primary objective of the new telecom bill is to ensure faster and improved internet services across Pakistan.
