PTA Raises Alarms Over 5G Auction Amid Legal Uncertainty on 140 MHz Spectrum
Taveer Ahmed:
Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has voiced strong concerns about proceeding with the long-awaited 5G auction due to ongoing legal disputes surrounding the 140 MHz spectrum. The issue was highlighted during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT’s Sub-Committee, chaired by Barrister Gohar.
PTA Chairman warned that launching the auction while court cases remain unresolved could pose serious risks, potentially deterring telecom operators and investors. “Until the 140 MHz spectrum is cleared by the courts, the auction of 5G will be risky,” he stated.
However, differing opinions surfaced during the meeting. The Ministry of IT’s Member Legal asserted that no stay order currently blocks the spectrum’s auction, suggesting it is legally permissible to move forward. Barrister Gohar echoed this, arguing that the ongoing litigation should not stall progress, especially when the spectrum is under PTA’s control.
The debate exposed a clash between regulatory caution and the political push for digital advancement. Barrister Gohar stressed the urgent need for 5G in underserved areas, especially tribal regions, urging that legal concerns should not obstruct national development.
Telecom companies, meanwhile, remain hesitant, citing fears that unresolved legal matters could later derail the process. To address these concerns, the committee decided to summon telecom operators in the next session and conduct a detailed review of court decisions linked to the 140 MHz spectrum.
The PTA chairman also revealed he had requested the prime minister’s intervention to expedite court rulings related to the matter, emphasizing the importance of legal clarity for a smooth 5G rollout.
About Author
