PTA Chairman Highlights Internet Shutdowns, Social Media Regulation, and Connectivity Challenges
Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, acknowledged on Wednesday that internet shutdowns are problematic but clarified that the practice predates his tenure.
Speaking at a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology in Islamabad, the Chairman addressed key topics, including internet disruptions, VPN registration, and social media regulation. He stated that internet shutdowns are implemented only upon directives from the Ministry of Interior. When questioned about the frequent disruptions, he suggested that the Ministries of Law and Interior are better suited to provide legal clarity.
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A senator raised concerns about the PTA’s authority to suspend internet services, asking for its legal basis. The PTA Chairman reiterated that such actions are based on directives from the Ministry of Interior. The Special Secretary of IT added that suspending internet services is sometimes necessary to block access to all online content in a specific area.
Past internet shutdowns, including those directed by the Supreme Court and High Court, were also discussed. Some senators urged the Ministry of IT to resolve legal ambiguities and seek court reviews to define the limits of internet restrictions.
On the issue of social media regulation, the PTA Chairman disclosed that the authority receives approximately 500 daily complaints about objectionable content. While social media platforms address 80% of these requests, 20% remain unresolved, raising concerns within the committee.
Discussing VPN registration, the PTA Chairman reported that the process began on December 19, with applications already received from two internet service providers and one major corporation. PTA is working with the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) to adopt a globally recognized VPN model.
Regarding Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, the Chairman revealed that the country ranks 97th in global internet speed. However, efforts to enhance connectivity are underway. This year, Pakistan will benefit from the “2 Africa” submarine cable, with four additional submarine cables planned for the future.