Lahore High Court orders PTA to curb illegal SIM sales amid terrorism concerns

In a recent ruling from Lahore High Court (LHC), Justice Tariq Saleem Sheikh directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to enforce stringent measures to curb illegal SIM card sales, amid ongoing terrorism concerns. The directive comes in the context of a case involving Muhammad Usman, who was accused of illegally selling mobile SIM cards.

Justice Sheikh’s order underscores his deep concern regarding potential misuse of such devices for terrorist activities, emphasizing that Pakistan has already suffered from this menace and should not compromise its national security by allowing illegal SIMs to be used in criminal enterprises. During the hearing, he stressed the critical need for immediate action.

PTA officials appeared before court with other legal representatives; Usman’s defense counsel argued against the correctness of the NCCIA’s allegations, requesting bail on Usman’s behalf. Despite these arguments, Justice Sheikh insisted on enforcing regulations to prevent illegal SIM card sales, citing the urgent necessity to safeguard national security interests.

The LHC adjourned proceedings until Monday, instructing PTA to make progress in implementing these directives. The case against Usman remains under NCCIA jurisdiction for further proceedings.