TTAP demands removal of IT Minister over 'anti-people' telecommunication bill

The opposition alliance, TTAP, has demanded the removal of IT and Telecom Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja over the controversial Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organisation) (Amendment) Bill 2026.

The bill, which was passed by the National Assembly on June 11 and is currently under review by the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication, has sparked public debate, particularly regarding provisions related to telecom infrastructure on private property.

TTAP spokesperson Akhunzada Hussain Ahmad Yousufzai claimed that the proposed legislation would allow telecom operators to install cellphone towers on private land without the owner's consent. He argued that property owners would be unable to object and could face fines of up to Rs50 million for non-compliance, calling the measure a violation of constitutional property and privacy rights.

The opposition alliance also criticized the legislative process, alleging that the bill was approved without adequate public consultation or proper scrutiny. Yousufzai accused the IT minister of mishandling the legislation and said reports of possible corruption surrounding the bill warranted serious attention.

On these grounds, TTAP called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to remove the minister from office.

TTAP further noted that the government's decision to establish an inquiry committee to review the bill effectively acknowledged flaws in the proposed legislation. However, the alliance objected to the committee’s composition, arguing that it includes only government representatives and demanding opposition members be added to ensure transparency and impartiality.

In response to the criticism, the IT Ministry rejected claims that the amendments would allow unrestricted access to private property. The ministry stated that the revised Right of Way provisions are intended to facilitate telecom infrastructure development, improve connectivity, and support investment following Pakistan’s recent 5G spectrum auction. It emphasized that the bill does not permit entry onto private property without consent or legal authorization and does not allow compulsory acquisition of private land.