The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecom has given its approval to the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024, aiming to digitize government operations and promote transparency.
While the bill received majority support, several lawmakers voiced concerns regarding data protection and potential risks of misuse. However, Minister of State Shaza Fatima assured that the bill does not involve centralized data collection. Instead, it focuses on streamlining digital identities and enhancing cybersecurity measures. She emphasized that the new regulations will reduce corruption and improve public service delivery by introducing mobile-based processes and minimizing reliance on physical paperwork.
During the discussion, committee members raised issues such as slow internet speeds, insufficient infrastructure, and the lack of a comprehensive Data Protection Act. They argued that these challenges should be addressed before implementing the bill. Despite these reservations, the committee approved the legislation with little opposition.
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The passage of the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024 marks a significant step toward modernizing Pakistan’s governance framework. By leveraging technology, the bill aims to improve administrative efficiency, enhance transparency, and ensure faster service delivery to citizens.
However, the absence of a robust Data Protection Act remains a critical concern, with experts warning that the lack of proper safeguards could expose sensitive personal and institutional data to potential misuse. Lawmakers and stakeholders have called for immediate efforts to draft and implement comprehensive data protection legislation to complement the digitization efforts under the new bill.
The bill also underscores the need for improving digital infrastructure across the country. Addressing issues such as slow internet connectivity and inadequate IT infrastructure will be crucial for the successful implementation of the initiatives outlined in the legislation. The government has been urged to prioritize investments in technology infrastructure to ensure equitable access and smooth functioning of digital processes.
As Pakistan moves toward becoming a digitally integrated nation, the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024 represents an important milestone. However, its success will largely depend on how effectively the government addresses the associated challenges and ensures that the digital transformation benefits all segments of society.
