CT Newsroom
Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja informed the members of the National Assembly (MNA) on Wednesday that national security is the most paramount issue.
As per National Assembly, Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, while addressing the concerns of MNAs over the persistent internet disruptions, informed them that nothing is more paramount than national security
Shaza’s response came after Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) MNA Abdul Qadir Patel raised questions about the internet speed, saying that he could not even load photos online.
He added,” Online businesses have come to a standstill. Children’s education is also suffering. We should be informed when the internet will work at its full speed”.
Shaza clarified: “We do not enjoy restricting internet access, nor do I have any button to shut it off. In cases of security threats, decisions are made directly by the PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority)”.
She also informed her fellow lawmakers in the National Assembly that her ministry was already working for the betterment of user experience. She also mentioned that the internet was not shut down completely during Muharram as it was happened in the previous government
Shaza noted, “Pakistan’s average speed has also increased 28% compared to the previous year, which led to a 24% surge in mobile internet usage”.
She claimed that sometimes issues arise due to security concerns, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring the country’s digital security, “Our priority is to protect our citizens and their data. We are responsible for safeguarding the privacy and safety of users’ information”.
She acknowledged that the whole cabinet stands firmly behind the IT ministry, with the singular agenda of supporting and advancing the IT sector.