ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly on Wednesday witnessed a strong call for reducing the high taxes levied on mobile phones by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Lawmakers stressed the need to lower these duties to make digital connectivity more accessible and affordable for the general public.
Pakistan Peoples Party MNA Qasim Gilani highlighted the importance of treating mobile phones as essential devices rather than luxury items. He initiated a symbolic campaign within the Assembly, holding placards that demanded a cut in PTA taxes. Gilani argued that mobile phones have become indispensable for education, business, and daily communication, and that excessive taxation is hindering access, especially for students and low-income groups.
He further emphasized that reducing these taxes would help close the digital divide, enhancing access to vital information and services across the country.
In a significant development, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja endorsed the call for tax reform by joining lawmakers in displaying placards inside the House. The placards bore the message: “Mobile phones are a necessity, not a luxury,” underscoring growing concerns about the affordability of digital devices.
The minister’s involvement lent additional weight to the discussion, with members from various political parties recognizing the critical role of mobile connectivity in Pakistan’s rapidly digitizing economy. Lawmakers urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of PTA-related taxes to facilitate wider public access to digital tools and services.
