The proposed Pakistan Telecommunication Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill has come under increasing scrutiny amid concerns that some of its provisions could violate constitutional protections relating to private property rights.

Legal experts and lawmakers have raised questions over clauses that would grant telecom companies broader access to private land for the installation and maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure, including towers. 

Critics argue that if enacted in its current form, the legislation could face constitutional challenges and may ultimately be declared ultra vires of the Constitution.

The controversy centres on provisions that extend Right of Way powers to private property, including individually owned land and residential housing schemes. Under Section 27A of the proposed bill, approval for telecom infrastructure projects may be deemed granted if a property owner fails to respond within a specified period. Section 27B further authorises penalties........

© Naya Daur