The federal cabinet has authorized the Inter-Services Intelligence Agency (ISI) to intercept calls, messages, or trace calls in the interest of national security or to prevent a crime. This decision, approved on Monday through a circulated summary, is formalized in the gazette notification S.R.O 1005(I)/2024.
The notification states: “In exercise of the powers conferred under section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996 (the Act), the Federal Government in the interest of national security and in the apprehension of any offence, is pleased to authorize the officers not below the rank of grade 18 to be nominated from time to time by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to intercept calls and messages or to trace calls through any telecommunication system as envisaged under Section 54 of the Act.”
Key Provisions of Section 54:
- National Security: The Federal Government may authorize any person to intercept calls and messages or trace calls through any telecommunication system for national security or crime prevention.
- Wartime and Hostilities: During war, hostilities, or internal aggression, the Federal Government has priority over any licensee in the telecommunication system for defense and security.
- Emergency Provisions: The Federal Government may suspend or modify any orders or licenses during a proclaimed emergency by the President, potentially impacting the operation, functions, or services of any licensee. Compensation may be provided to affected licensees under this subsection.
To Keep Updated Visit & Follow our Facebook Page Or Our Website
