The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken a stance against the banning of SIM cards for non-filers, a move that has sparked criticism in the country’s telecoms industry.
The PTA has resisted barring SIM cards, arguing that it is incompatible with their system. Women and children who are enrolled under men’s identities utilize a huge number of SIM cards. According to Pakistan’s telecom authorities, just 27% of SIM cards are registered in women’s names.
PTA is not legally obligated to prohibit SIMs, and the Income Tax Ordinance 2021 does not apply to them. Blocking a huge number of SIMs will have a substantial negative impact on digitalization and the telecom industry. The PTA also cautions that it may jeopardize foreign investment in the telecom industry. Banking transactions, e-commerce, and mobile account users will all have difficulties.
PTA believes that, in addition to SIM card banning, other legal solutions should be investigated. SIM card owners should also be confirmed ahead of any potential obstructions, since one individual may get up to eight SIM cards for others and themselves.
