Lahore, July 10, 2024: The Pakistan government’s decision to authorize Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to tap phones has been challenged in the Lahore High Court (LHC).
A petition has been filed in the LHC challenging the government’s decision, arguing that it violates citizens’ privacy and freedom of expression and against the constitution of Pakistan.
The petition contends that the government’s notification allowing phone tapping was issued under a section of the PTA Act that has no rules framed yet, making it illegal.
The petitioner has requested the court to declare the notification null and void.
It is pertinent to mention here that the government of Pakistan authorized the ISI to tap phones in the context of national security and crime prevention.
This authorization was given under Section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication Act.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication issued a gazette notification to this effect, stating that at least an officer of grade 18 will be appointed for this task.
