The Senate Committee Telecom Scrutiny has recently put Jazz and Ufone under sharp criticism, raising serious questions about pricing, service quality, and financial health. Lawmakers highlighted that Jazz allegedly overcharged customers by Rs6.58 billion, while Ufone is struggling with continued losses and spectrum shortages. Both issues were discussed in separate meetings of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan.
Jazz, Pakistan’s largest telecom operator with more than 70 million subscribers, came under fire for allegedly raising tariffs beyond approved limits during FY 2023–24. The Auditor General of Pakistan flagged that consumers were billed at rates higher than those authorized by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Senators expressed frustration, pointing to poor service quality, weak connectivity on highways, and lack of 4G coverage despite higher tariffs. The PTA chairman admitted Jazz’s shortcomings, stating that he would not defend the company, signaling tighter oversight ahead.
Meanwhile, Ufone faced tough questions regarding its ongoing financial struggles. Senator Humayun Mohmand alleged that government influence was keeping Ufone in losses, but Senator Afnanullah clarified that its management is private. PTA officials explained that spectrum shortages remain a key reason behind Ufone’s weak performance. Pakistan currently uses only 274 MHz of spectrum, far below regional standards, limiting network expansion and delaying 5G rollout.
The Senate Committee Telecom Scrutiny emphasized that consumer interests must come first, urging transparent tariff policies, timely spectrum auctions, and accountability for service providers. With Jazz facing backlash over alleged overcharging and Ufone struggling to stay competitive, senators warned that urgent action is needed to protect subscribers and strengthen Pakistan’s telecom sector.
