Islamabad, July 31, 2025: In a recent session chaired by MNA Umair Khan Niazi, the Sub-Committee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology reviewed critical issues, including the recovery of outstanding dues from Long Distance and International (LDI) telecom operators and challenges around license renewals.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman emphasized that the regulatory body has no legal provision to permit installment-based payments for pending dues. He stated that numerous discussions had already taken place with defaulting LDI companies, but no unified agreement had been reached. PTA has officially issued letters demanding full payment of all outstanding amounts, including late payment charges, from the defaulters.
In response, several LDI firms proposed installment payments for the principal dues and offered post-dated cheques as a goodwill gesture. However, the PTA remained firm on its stance, highlighting that any such arrangement must include late fees deposited in an escrow account, and full payment must be made in line with original license agreements.
According to the PTA, five LDI companies are still refusing to clear principal dues totaling Rs. 15 billion, creating a significant hurdle in regulatory compliance.
During the session, company representatives expressed frustration over the government’s lack of transparency and consistency in its telecom license renewal policy. They urged the authorities to establish clear guidelines to avoid similar disputes in the future.
Secretary IT acknowledged the complex nature of the issue, pointing out that each telecom operator has unique concerns. He also indicated that any decision taken for LDI firms could set a precedent for similar cases in other industries.
To resolve the deadlock, the subcommittee has requested a legal interpretation from the Ministry of Law regarding the recovery mechanism. Chairman Umair Khan Niazi directed relevant departments to coordinate with the Attorney General’s office to accelerate ongoing court cases linked to spectrum license disputes and ensure proper follow-up for timely resolution.
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The meeting was attended by top officials, including the Secretary IT, Special Secretary IT, and Chairman PTA, reaffirming the government’s intent to pursue this matter with urgency and legal clarity.
