Forced network shutdowns deemed illegal by Islamabad High Court

A telecom operator was victorious at the Islamabad High Court on the issue of suspension of services/network closures as a result of directives issued by PTA from time to time. The decision by Islamabad High Court also held that the Federal Government and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority are not vested with power and jurisdiction to suspend or cause the suspension of mobile cellular services or operations on the ground of national security except as provided under section 54(3) of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996.

Moreover, the court accepted the plea of Zong 4G and held that actions, orders, and directives issued by the Federal Government or the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority are inconsistent with the provisions of section 54(3) of Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996 and are declared as illegal, ultra vires and without lawful authority and jurisdiction.

The suspension of mobile services is a cause of distress for the customers, especially in a time of a civil unrest. It is a time when they need the services the most to reach out to their loved ones. Owing to this need, Zong 4G has reaffirmed its position of putting its customers before all priorities.