News
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Raja directs Malik to safeguard mobile services
* PM appreciates Interior Ministry’s efforts for security on Eid
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Amidst concerns and controversy over government’s plan to block pre-paid SIMs issued on bogus national identity cards, Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf on Friday directed Interior Minister Rehman Malik to take every possible measure to safeguard the mobile services from elements misusing them, without causing any inconvenience to the common man.
The prime minister gave these directions in a meeting with the interior minister, who called on him at PM’s House. Raja said cell phones were an essential need of the modern life and citizens of Pakistan must continue to enjoy this facility without any disruption.
Malik briefed the prime minister about the steps taken by the Interior Ministry on the occasion of Eidul Fitr for pre-empting any untoward incident. He said that the decision of blocking mobile facility in certain areas played a critical role in maintaining peace during Eid.
Raja appreciated the efforts of the interior minister and his team for the excellent security arrangements made in coordination with provincial governments on the occasion of Eidul Fitr.
However, telecom operators have expressed grave concern over the government’s plan to block pre-paid SIMs issued on fake national identity cards. They believe that the $10 billion telecom industry in the country will be in trouble if the plan is executed.
Malik, on Tuesday, had said that the government was considering a proposal to block all pre-paid SIMs in phases to prevent their use in terrorist activities. He also said that mobile phones had become the biggest weapon in the hands of terrorists, who were using unauthorised SIMs. He added the government’s had top-most responsibility is to ensure protection to the lives and property of all people and that all efforts would be made for their security.Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk