ISLAMABAD: Sharmila Farooqi, a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) lawmaker, expressed her frustration during a National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology meeting, accusing the government of failing to address the ongoing issue of slow internet and frequent disruptions.

The meeting, chaired by Syed Aminul Haque, was focused on addressing these internet concerns. Farooqi took aim at the government’s claims of improved internet services, particularly criticizing State Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja’s responses. She questioned the government’s accountability and highlighted the impact of internet disruptions on her husband’s e-commerce business, which had suffered financial losses. “Whenever PTI announces a protest, the internet suddenly goes down. Is the government calling us and e-commerce companies liars?” she remarked. In response, Shaza Fatima defended the government, emphasizing national security concerns and the need for surveillance in certain situations. “This country faces terrorism. Over 100 soldiers were martyred in a month. Surveillance is essential where necessary, but it should not unduly burden the public,” she explained. Khawaja further reassured the committee, claiming that while issues had existed, they were being resolved, citing the $1.5 billion in exports from Pakistan in the last month despite the internet challenges. She also mentioned ongoing efforts to introduce satellite internet through Starlink. However, Farooqi dismissed these reassurances, saying, “Four meetings have passed, and yet no solution has been provided. Either we are lying, or the government is.” She called for greater transparency regarding the internet disruptions, particularly during political protests, and urged the government to provide clear explanations if security concerns were the root cause.

Mustafa Kamal of the MQM also emphasized that the government should address the public’s concerns and clarify the situation. Farooqi highlighted her personal frustrations with unreliable services, including WhatsApp issues, urging the government to be honest and find real solutions. The meeting concluded with calls for clearer explanations and actionable steps to address the ongoing internet issues.