ISLAMABAD— The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications has proposed moving the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) from the Finance Ministry to the IT Ministry.
Senator Palwasha Khan convened the meeting on Monday. The committee investigated the council’s scope and questioned its legal basis. Lawmakers emphasised that the government did not consult Parliament before forming the PCC.
Senator Mohammad Humayun Mohmand questioned whether the executive branch could form the council without legislative consent. Officials responded by clarifying that financial problems are under the jurisdiction of the Finance Ministry. They went on to say that the State Bank of Pakistan is responsible for currency regulation.
Secretary IT Zarrar Hasham Khan stated that the IT Ministry now advises the council on its terms of reference. Despite this, the committee claimed that the council primarily works with digital and technological challenges. As a result, it should fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information Technology.
The committee deferred the final judgment. It decided to invite representatives from the Finance Ministry to the next meeting for a thorough briefing.
Update on LDI and FLL Licences
Pakistan Crypto Council: The committee also looked into the status of Long Distance International (LDI) and Fixed Local Loop (FLL) licensing renewals. Mr. Hasham stated that, in accordance with Sindh High Court directions, the IT Ministry completed consultations with stakeholders. He stated that the ministry would make a final decision within two to three weeks.
Follow “Closeup Pakistan” on X, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook to stay up to date on Pakistani technology, finance, and policy.
