The ongoing dispute between the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Long Distance and International (LDI) telecom operators has reached a critical stage, as nine LDI companies have formally approached the Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology, Aminul Haque, seeking parliamentary intervention.

In a detailed letter, the LDI firms requested assistance to resolve the Rs. 78 billion conflict, which they claim is jeopardizing both local and international investments in Pakistan’s telecom sector. The PTA has withheld license renewals for the companies, citing unpaid dues amounting to Rs. 78 billion—comprising Rs. 24 billion in principal and Rs. 54 billion in surcharges due to late payments.

These dues are linked to a disputed policy on Access Promotion Contribution (APC) payments from 2008 to 2011. The LDI operators argue that PTA’s APC notifications during that period were unlawful and in violation of regulatory standards. This position was supported by a 2011 special audit report from the Auditor General of Pakistan, which labeled PTA’s actions as irregular.

Although the licenses of these LDI operators have expired, they continue to operate under the justification that the matter is still under judicial review. To show good faith, some operators have deposited over Rs. 5 billion into escrow accounts.

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Five of the nine companies have offered to pay the principal amount in installments but have raised objections to the conditions proposed by PTA in its installment plan. The remaining four companies have rejected the installment terms altogether.

In their appeal, the LDI firms criticized PTA’s approach as legally flawed and detrimental to investor confidence. They urged immediate action to renew licenses and suggested a recalculation of outstanding dues using a standardized rate of $0.02 per minute—a rate some operators are willing to accept.

The letter also questioned the rationale behind PTA’s imposition of penalties, particularly when funds are already held in escrow. In response, Chairman Aminul Haque assured the LDI companies that their concerns would be addressed, and confirmed they would be invited to present their case before the Standing Committee.