The Federal Cabinet of Pakistan has authorized a national security measure that permits a designated officer from a secret agency to intercept or trace calls and messages if there is a suspicion of criminal activity.
The decision, facilitated via a circular, invokes Section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication Act 1996, specifying that the nominated officer will hold a minimum rank of grade 18.
Section 54 grants the federal government the authority to nominate individuals to monitor telecommunications in the interest of national security or response to potential criminal threats.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party, commented on the initiative, highlighting the intrinsic connection between national security and the country’s economic stability.
Bilawal affirmed the People’s Party’s commitment to ensuring enduring peace and consensus on national security issues, which is why they have decided to participate in the All Parties Conference convened by the government.
