In a recent revelation, it has come to light that the telecom sector in Pakistan has been granted discounts amounting to over Rs 50 billion.
According to documents obtained by Samaa TV, the Ministry of Information Technology and PTAL have shown leniency towards Long Distance International (LDI) companies.
The documents reveal that 10 LDI companies were given a waiver of 54 billion rupees in late payment charges. These companies owe a total of Rs 76 billion for Access Promotion Contribution (APC) and Universal Service Fund (USF), which includes Rs 24 billion in principal and Rs 54 billion in late payment charges.
The companies were given the option to pay half of the principal amount of Rs 24 billion in 30 installments, while the penalty charges were disregarded.
Secretary IT stated that there was no intention to waive the dues and markup for the companies, and if there was any misunderstanding from the notification, it would be clarified.
The documents also reveal that the companies have taken the matter to court, and the case is still under hearing. The court orders do not mention any discounts for renewing the licenses of the companies.
