The Ministry of Information Technology has clarified that the proposed Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-Organization) Amendment Bill 2026 does not allow telecom operators to acquire private land or enter properties without permission.
The clarification comes amid growing debate over the legislation, which is currently under review in the Senate after being passed by the National Assembly.
Government Responds to Concerns Over Telecom Bill
Concerns emerged in the Upper House when lawmakers referred the bill to the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology for further review.
Senators raised questions regarding Right of Way (ROW) provisions and potential impacts on private property rights.
In response, the IT ministry stated that the legislation is focused on expanding telecom infrastructure while ensuring full protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.
The ministry emphasized that the bill is designed to improve connectivity without undermining ownership protections.
No Forced Entry or Land Acquisition Allowed
The IT ministry clearly stated that the Right of Way provisions do not permit telecom operators to enter private property without consent.
It also confirmed that the bill does not authorize compulsory acquisition of private land under any circumstances.
Instead, property owners will retain full control over decisions related to access, negotiation, and infrastructure placement.
The ministry explained that owners will be able to respond, negotiate terms, raise objections, and agree on alignment and timing of telecom infrastructure work.
Legal Process for Unresponsive Property Owners
The clarification also addressed situations where property owners do not respond to notices or reminders.
In such cases, the matter will be referred to the relevant authority for legal review and resolution.
However, the ministry stressed that telecom companies will not be allowed to enter private property while the issue remains under consideration.
This ensures that due process remains intact at every stage of infrastructure development.
Contractual Safeguards and Restoration Obligations
The ministry further explained that penalties mentioned in the bill apply only to cases where contractual obligations have already been agreed upon and later violated.
Officials said such measures are intended to protect investment and ensure compliance with agreed terms.
In addition, companies involved in infrastructure development will be required to restore any affected property to its original condition after completing their work.
The ministry stated that no permanent damage to private property will be allowed under the proposed framework.
Addressing Telecom Infrastructure Gaps
According to the IT ministry, Pakistan’s telecom sector has faced significant challenges due to slow infrastructure development.
It pointed to fragmented Right of Way approvals, inconsistent regulations, and high deployment costs as key barriers to expansion.
These issues, the ministry said, have contributed to delays in fiberization and reduced service quality for consumers.
The proposed amendments aim to create a clear and transparent legal framework for public property, private developments, and individual land use while improving regulatory consistency.
Legislative Review and Parliamentary Process
The ministry confirmed that the provisions of the bill have already undergone detailed legislative scrutiny.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication reviewed the draft extensively, including its objectives, implementation mechanisms, and safeguards.
Lawmakers from multiple political parties participated in the discussions before the bill was finalized.
Currently, the legislation remains under deliberation in the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication for further review.
Focus on Balanced Digital Expansion
Officials maintain that the bill is intended to support Pakistan’s digital infrastructure growth while protecting private property rights.
They argue that stronger legal clarity will encourage investment, improve connectivity, and ensure more reliable internet services across the country.
At the same time, safeguards have been included to ensure that citizens retain full legal protection over their land and property rights throughout the process.
