Federal govt granted ISI authority to intercept citizens’ phone calls

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has authorised the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to intercept and trace the phone calls and messages of citizens. This decision, approved by the federal cabinet through circulation, has been justified as a measure in the interest of national security and to prevent potential crimes.

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Sources indicate that the cabinet’s decision empowers the ISI to designate officers for the purpose of intercepting communications. However, the authority is restricted to officers of grade 18 or higher, as stipulated under Section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication Act, 1996.

The decision has sparked a significant backlash, particularly from the opposition. Omar Ayub, Leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly, has voiced strong criticism. Speaking to the media, Ayub warned that those who have endorsed this decision will themselves be subjected to surveillance in the future.

“Those who authorise call tracing will go to jail,” Ayub declared. “Through this law, Asif Zardari, Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, Bilawal, and Maryam will go to jail.”

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The move has raised concerns over privacy and the potential for misuse of power, with many questioning the implications for civil liberties in Pakistan.