The Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom has summoned the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to address serious allegations against Jazz for overcharging customers and delivering substandard service, particularly in rural areas and along highways.
During the session, committee members expressed frustration over Jazz’s rising tariffs not being matched by improvements in service. Committee Chairman questioned whether higher charges were justified, while Senator Nadeem Bhutto criticized Jazz for ongoing connectivity issues, despite being a long-time customer.
“My father scolds me because calls don’t even connect,” Senator Bhutto said, highlighting the lack of reliable service on highways and the prevalence of 2G coverage in many areas.
PTA Chairman acknowledged persistent service issues and clarified that Jazz’s tariff increases — including a 19% hike in 2024 — required prior PTA approval. He said an audit report was misinterpreted and insisted that the authority is actively regulating pricing to maintain market balance.
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He also emphasized that cartelization has been avoided in the telecom sector and that Jazz’s requests to raise tariffs beyond approved levels had been denied.
“If customers are overcharged, we will ensure reimbursement,” the PTA chief assured, while firmly stating, “I will not defend Jazz under any circumstances.”
The committee was also briefed on wider industry challenges, including the delay in spectrum auctions and the stalled merger of Ufone and Telenor, both of which are affecting service quality and market performance.
PTA confirmed readiness for a new spectrum auction and has urged the Prime Minister to speed up the process to improve connectivity nationwide.
The Senate’s scrutiny increases pressure on Jazz and PTA alike to ensure consumer rights, service improvements, and a fair, competitive telecom environment
