Senate panel meeting on Monday: Ufone rebranding, Starlink and Etisalat top agenda
ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication is set to take up a wide-ranging agenda on Monday, including the reported rebranding of Ufone following its merger with Telenor, Starlink’s launch, USD 800 million in outstanding Etisalat dues, and alleged overcharging of mobile users by Jazz. The committee will also examine internet shutdowns, telecom…
The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss a broad range of topics related to the telecommunications sector in Pakistan. Among the issues on the agenda is the reported rebranding and merging of Ufone with Telenor, which has led to speculation about a new name, "e&".
The committee will also hear updates on the launch of Starlink, a satellite-based internet service, and delve into the USD 800 million in outstanding dues owed by Etisalat in connection with the privatization of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL).
Other key points of discussion include allegations of overcharging by mobile service provider Jazz, which has reportedly charged mobile users Rs6.58 billion in excess. The committee will seek a detailed audit report and investigate potential actions to safeguard consumer rights. Furthermore, the committee will examine security concerns over satellite connectivity and allegations of sensitive government officials' data being transferred to foreign entities.
The committee will also take on cyber-security matters, including an investigation into the alleged unauthorized transfer of personal data of Pakistani government officers to foreign entities. The Director General of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) will provide a briefing on the situation and the steps being taken to prevent future incidents.
The committee will also review court cases and stay orders involving LDI/FLL companies, seeking a way forward from the Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication.
Additionally, the committee will address connectivity issues affecting 40 Pakistan Railways trains, including lack of signals and Wi-Fi network facilities. Lastly, the committee will consider a request from Pak Datacom employees regarding the termination of their employment, as well as the closure of mobile services in Lakki Marwat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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