The Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024 was approved by the National Assembly’s IT and Telecom Standing Committee with a majority vote. Ten members voted in favor of the bill, while six members opposed it. Chairman of the Committee, Amin Ul Haq, expressed a desire for unanimous approval, which was not achieved. Members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opposed the bill.
Minister of State for IT, Shiza Fatima Khawaja, informed the committee that amendments had been made to the bill, with the revised version being provided to all members. Addressing objections from opposition members, including Umar Ayub, Umair Niazi, and Barrister Gohar, Shiza Fatima clarified that the bill did not intend to centralize data in one place, as some had suggested. Instead, the digital identity system would provide easier access to services, and efforts were being made to ensure robust digital security.
She emphasized that after implementing the Digital Master Plan, cybersecurity would be strengthened. "At present, no agency, including NADRA, holds centralized data. The Digital Pakistan Bill will make services more accessible through mobile phones, reducing queues in government offices," she said.
Despite opposition, the bill was passed with a four-vote majority. The PTI members urged that their concerns be addressed before proceeding with the bill.
PTI opposes proposed Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024
National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology convened under the chairmanship of Amin Ul Haq to deliberate on the government's proposed Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024.
Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, briefed the committee, highlighting amendments made to the bill. She assured the members that the revised draft had been shared with all.
Committee member Umar Ayub raised concerns about internet disruptions, claiming, "Shark attacks on underwater internet cables have caused severe damage." He further alleged, "Whenever PTI holds a rally, internet speeds are deliberately slowed down." Ayub reiterated that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf opposes the Digital Nation Bill, adding, "The digital economy is on the brink of collapse, and we lack the necessary tools to sustain it."
Another member, Umair Niazi, voiced objections, stating, "Do not rush this process. Address our reservations first." He questioned the necessity of establishing a Digital Commission.
Barrister Gohar, another committee member, echoed concerns, asking, "Why is there a need for a Digital Commission?"
Responding to the concerns, Shaza Fatima clarified, "There is a misconception that all data will be centralized. Institutions are being digitized to enhance efficiency." She emphasized that digital identification would simplify access to many services.
