ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication withdrew the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organisation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 from the Senate as its stipulated 90-day period is approaching completion.
According to a press release issued by the ministry, once the prescribed period expires, the bill would proceed to a joint sitting of Parliament, which may not be convened in the near future.
To avoid delays and expedite the legislative process, the ministry has decided to introduce a fresh bill, ensuring that the legislation moves forward in a timely and effective manner while retaining the essence of the proposed amendments.
The bill had sparked controversy over provisions that could affect private property rights across the country.
Under the proposed framework, telecommunications operators may seek access to private property for the installation, deployment, operation, maintenance or upgrading of telecommunications infrastructure, including fibre-optic networks, telecom towers, generators, equipment and related facilities.
The move comes after the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication deferred consideration of the bill in June and sought a review of provisions relating to private property rights.
During its meeting, the committee extensively deliberated on the bill.
The committee was informed that the proposed amendments primarily focused on three areas: institutional reforms in line with State-Owned Enterprise principles; expansion and facilitation of telecommunications infrastructure; and measures to improve operational efficiency and transparency within the regulatory framework.
Committee members, however, raised concerns over provisions relating to the powers of the “appropriate government”, the use of discretionary language in implementation clauses and the potential implications for private property rights.
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Senators stressed that no individual should be compelled to allow the installation of telecommunications infrastructure without clear legal protections, mechanisms for mutual agreement and transparent dispute-resolution procedures.
Members also questioned provisions concerning access to private land, the placement of telecom towers and the interpretation of penalties related to denial of right of way.
