The Telecommunication Reorganization (Amendment) Bill, recently passed by the National Assembly, has triggered controversy after members of the Senate raised concerns that the proposed legislation could negatively impact private property rights. Lawmakers have warned that the bill may significantly expand the powers of the state and telecommunications companies over privately owned land and property.
The bill, approved by the National Assembly on June 11, was later referred to the Senate and forwarded to the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication for detailed review. During a committee meeting held this week, senators expressed reservations over several provisions of the legislation, leading to the postponement of further deliberation.
The Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication said the legislation could create serious concerns regarding the protection of private property rights. She warned that citizens’ properties could be affected under clauses related to the installation of mobile towers and fiber-optic infrastructure. According to her, the bill allows authorities to issue a 15-day notice to property owners before such installations, raising concerns about potential limitations on ownership rights.
She further stated that the bill appeared to have been prepared in haste, adding that her party’s legislative committee had already communicated concerns to the Ministry of Information Technology prior to its passage. She noted that the proposed law would face extensive debate within political circles and on the Senate floor before any final decision is made.
Senator Palwasha Khan said the committee would review key provisions, including Article 27A and clauses related to penalties and fines, before proposing amendments. After detailed deliberations, the revised bill will be sent back to the National Assembly for reconsideration. The controversy has intensified debate over balancing rapid telecommunications infrastructure expansion with the protection of citizens’ constitutional property rights.
