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The recovery of Rs78 billion in outstanding dues from Long Distance International (LDI) telecom operators has reached a standstill, as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Ministry of Information Technology continue to pass the buck. The impasse over the LDI telecom dues recovery shows no sign of resolution, with both entities reportedly hesitant to make a move that could invite National Accountability Bureau (NAB) scrutiny.
Despite ongoing individual hearings at the PTA headquarters, no concrete progress has been made in the LDI telecom dues recovery issue. Sources confirm that both PTA and the IT Ministry have refused to assume responsibility for settling the matter. The primary roadblock appears to be fear of a potential NAB reference, especially if any leniency is shown or a financial compromise is reached.
The total owed by nine LDI companies amounts to Rs78 billion — Rs24 billion in principal and Rs54 billion in late payment surcharges. The PTA has made it clear that dues must be paid in full before any license renewal is considered, especially since the licenses of these companies have already expired.
Attempts to offer installment-based repayments have also failed, with most telecom companies rejecting PTA’s conditions outright. Even those willing to pay the principal in parts objected to the terms. Four firms have refused to pay anything under an installment model, reflecting the deep mistrust between the stakeholders.
The PTA maintains that the dues fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of IT, and that any waiver or policy relaxation must come from there. Ministry officials, on the other hand, fear that accommodating these companies could create a precedent for future defaults.
In a bid to break the deadlock, PTA Chairman has suggested a joint meeting between LDI company heads and the federal IT minister. Meanwhile, the companies have turned to the courts, challenging the payment conditions and seeking relief.
