Slow internet issue sparks heated exchange between Sharmila Farooqi, IT minister

Sharmila Farooqi pointed out that her husband’s e-commerce business faced financial losses due to the issue

Sharmila Farooqi, Pakistan People's Party (PPP) lawmaker, expressed her frustration during a National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology meeting, accusing the government of failing to address persistent internet disruptions, Express News reported.

The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for IT Syed Aminul Haque, focused on the slow internet issues. Farooqi criticised State Minister for IT Sheza Fatima Khawaja for her responses, questioning the government’s claims of improved internet services.

“Whenever PTI announces a protest, the internet suddenly goes down. Is the government calling e-commerce companies, the public, and us liars?” Farooqi asked, pointing out the financial losses incurred by her husband’s e-commerce business due to the issue.

Responding to the criticism, Sheza Fatima defended the government’s stance, citing national security concerns.
“This country faces terrorism. Over 100 soldiers were martyred in a month. Surveillance is necessary where required, but it should not burden the public unnecessarily,” she stated.

Addressing internet-related grievances, Khawaja claimed, “Issues existed but have now been resolved. Pakistan exported $1.5 billion in the last month. If the internet was down, where is this revenue coming from?” She added that efforts were underway to introduce satellite internet through Starlink.

Farooqi dismissed the minister’s reassurances, stating, “Four meetings have passed, yet no solution has been provided. Either we are lying, or the government is.” She urged transparency regarding internet disruptions, particularly during political protests, saying, “We are not fools. Tell the truth if security concerns exist.”

Mustafa Kamal of the MQM remarked that it was the government’s responsibility to correct the public’s perception. Farooqi further highlighted personal frustrations, adding, “Even WhatsApp doesn’t work properly. Voice notes fail to send. If security issues exist, just tell us the truth and find solutions.”

The meeting concluded with committee members calling for clearer explanations and actionable steps to address the ongoing internet issues.