Pakistan has taken a significant step toward recognizing internet access as a basic public service, with the Ministry of Information Technology completing a legal review and submitting a written report to the Senate Standing Committee on IT.
The move comes as the government considers placing internet services alongside essential utilities such as water, electricity and gas in light of the country's growing digital needs.
According to the IT Ministry's report, the increasing importance of the internet in everyday life has prompted the government to begin considering its status as a basic essential service.
The ministry has informed the Senate Standing Committee on IT that achieving the goals of the Digital Pakistan initiative depends on recognizing internet access as a basic public facility.
Internet now critical to key sectors
The report highlights that internet connectivity has become indispensable for Pakistan's digital economy, e-governance, online education, banking services and healthcare systems.
It warns that internet shutdowns can severely affect the economy and disrupt banking, education, health services and other critical sectors.
New legislation required
The IT Ministry noted that Pakistan currently has no specific law declaring the internet a basic essential service. It also pointed out that access to the internet has not been recognized as a fundamental right under the Constitution.
According to the report, either new legislation or amendments to existing laws will be required before internet access can be formally declared a basic public service.
Consultation with key institutions proposed
The ministry said the legislative process should be carried out in consultation with all relevant ministries and institutions.
These include the Ministry of Law, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Defence, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and telecom companies.
National security, regulatory framework to be defined
Before any legislation is introduced, the government will need to determine several important administrative and regulatory issues.
According to the report, policymakers must establish conditions for maintaining uninterrupted internet services, define the legal authority and procedure for imposing temporary internet restrictions in the interest of national security, and develop an effective regulatory oversight mechanism.
The report also recommends broader regulatory reforms to support the proposed framework.
Infrastructure, cybersecurity investment needed
The IT Ministry stressed that recognizing internet access as a basic public service would also require substantial investment in telecommunications infrastructure and cybersecurity.
Telecom operators would need to ensure backup networks, disaster recovery systems and compliance with minimum service standards to maintain uninterrupted connectivity.
The ministry believes these measures will strengthen Pakistan's digital ecosystem while supporting the country's long-term Digital Pakistan objectives.
