Sharmila Farooqi Confronts IT Ministry Over Internet Outages and Financial Impact on Businesses

During a recent National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology meeting, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) lawmaker Sharmila Farooqi criticized the government’s handling of persistent internet disruptions, highlighting the financial impact on her husband’s e-commerce business.

The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for IT Syed Aminul Haque, focused on addressing slow internet issues. Farooqi raised doubts about the assurances provided by State Minister for IT Sheza Fatima Khawaja regarding enhanced services, questioning the validity of the government’s statements.

Farooqi alleged that internet services deteriorate during political protests, particularly those organized by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), leading to significant financial losses for businesses. “Whenever PTI announces a protest, the internet suddenly goes down. Is the government calling e-commerce companies, the public, and us liars?” Farooqi asked, pointing out the financial losses incurred by her husband’s e-commerce business due to the issue.

In response, State Minister Khawaja cited national security concerns as a justification for surveillance measures that may affect internet services. She underscored the importance of these measures given the persistent security threats, particularly terrorism. “This country faces terrorism. Over 100 soldiers were martyred in a month. Surveillance is necessary where required, but it should not burden the public unnecessarily,” she stated.

Addressing internet-related grievances, Khawaja claimed, “Issues existed but have now been resolved. Pakistan exported $1.5 billion in the last month. If the internet was down, where is this revenue coming from?” She added that efforts were underway to introduce satellite internet through Starlink.

Farooqi dismissed the minister’s reassurances, stating, “Four meetings have passed, yet no solution has been provided. Either we are lying, or the government is.” She urged transparency regarding internet disruptions, particularly during political protests, saying, “We are not fools. Tell the truth if security concerns exist.”

Mustafa Kamal of the MQM remarked that it was the government’s responsibility to correct the public’s perception. Farooqi further highlighted personal frustrations, adding, “Even WhatsApp doesn’t work properly. Voice notes fail to send. If security issues exist, just tell us the truth and find solutions.”

The meeting concluded with committee members requesting more detailed explanations and actionable measures to resolve the persistent internet issues in Pakistan.