PTA Chairman Addresses Internet Shutdowns, VPN Registration, and Connectivity Challenges
The Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, stated on Wednesday that internet shutdowns are problematic, but noted that this practice has been in place long before his tenure began. He made these remarks during a Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology session held in Islamabad to discuss issues such as internet disruptions, VPN registrations, and social media regulation.
The PTA Chairman explained that internet shutdowns are initiated based on directives from the Ministry of Interior. When questioned about the frequency of these disruptions, he pointed out that the Ministries of Law and Interior are better suited to provide legal clarity. He emphasized that the PTA acts only on government orders, with no independent authority to enforce shutdowns.
Legal Ambiguities Surrounding Internet Restrictions
One senator questioned the PTA’s authority to block internet services in specific areas and sought clarification on the legal basis for such actions. The PTA Chairman clarified that the Ministry of Interior provides the directives, while the Special Secretary of IT added that suspending online content often requires halting internet services entirely.
The committee revisited instances of court-ordered shutdowns, urging the Ministry of IT to resolve legal ambiguities and, if necessary, seek reviews of directives to clarify the scope of internet restrictions.
Social Media and VPN Registration Progress
The PTA Chairman highlighted concerns about objectionable social media content, revealing that the authority receives around 500 daily complaints. Of these, 80% of flagged content is addressed by social media platforms, while 20% remains unresolved, raising concerns among the committee members.
On VPN registration, the Chairman confirmed the process began on December 19, with multiple applications already received. PTA is collaborating with P@SHA to establish a globally recognized VPN model.
Efforts to Improve Internet Infrastructure
The committee also discussed Pakistan’s internet infrastructure. The PTA Chairman disclosed that the country ranks 97th in internet speed but assured that efforts are underway to enhance connectivity. This includes the addition of the “2 Africa” submarine cable and plans for four more cables in the coming years.
The session concluded with a call for greater legal clarity and improved infrastructure to ensure reliable and fair internet access across the country.
