Tech Desk 
Aug 25, 2025
The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology expressed concerns about the delays in the auction procedure of the 5G spectrum with a warning to avoid falling behind in the global digital race pack.
It was stated by lawmakers that there needs to be quicker action overall to get high-speed internet (mobile) to the citizens and businesses.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman said in the meeting that auctioning the 5G spectrum requires the freeing up of various frequencies.
However, it was reported that the major band, which is the 2600 MHz band, is stuck in a court case at the moment (the IT Secretary explained and added that whenever one High Court rules in favour of the government party, the opposing party goes to another High Court).
Members of the Ministry of IT reported that there are outstanding spectrum-related cases lasting many years, which has created considerable resistance to rolling out 5G internet in Pakistan.
The senators noted that the 7-8 year delays are holding back digital growth, foreign investment, and opportunities for young people in Pakistan.
Senator Afnanullah was once again asked by the MPs why the government had not attempted a negotiated settlement with the other party.
The Committee Chairperson expressed how the federal government must approach the courts without delay to set hearing dates for the matters before the courts and try and expedite the process for auction.
Moreover, the IT and Telecom Secretary assured the committee that the government has already devised a strategy to request early hearings. He added that the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) has petitioned the courts to push proceedings forward. The senators said they are disappointed with the slow pace and demanded concrete progress.
