BLA Militants Using Advanced Wireless Technology for Communication, Not Just Internet: IT Secretary

ISLAMABAD/QUETTA – During a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication, it was revealed that Balochistan-based militants are using advanced wireless communication tools rather than relying solely on the internet. The IT Secretary informed the committee that while the internet is used to some extent, militants primarily depend on sophisticated wireless technologies for coordination.
Committee member Adil Bazai raised a critical question regarding the ongoing internet shutdowns in areas like Panjgur, Balochistan, asking whether such measures had improved the security situation. “Have conditions improved due to the internet shutdown? In fact, the situation has worsened,” he said. Bazai added that if terrorists are not using the internet, then such blackouts are unjustified and only harm civilians.
The issue of the prolonged internet blackout in Panjgur was also discussed. Ministry of Interior officials explained that a letter was sent on March 22 seeking security clearance to restore internet services, but intelligence agencies have denied clearance for the next six months. Committee member Polhien Baloch expressed frustration over the long-standing issue, stating that it felt like collective punishment for the region.
The committee also addressed recent cyberattacks launched against Pakistan during its tensions with India. Chairman Aminul Haque revealed that between May 5 and 10, multiple cyberattacks were launched but were successfully repelled by Pakistan’s cybersecurity team and the National CERT. He lauded the team’s performance and revealed that Pakistan also conducted counter-cyber operations against adversaries.
In closing, Chairman Aminul Haque emphasized that national security remains the top priority. He announced that an in-camera session would soon be convened to discuss sensitive details related to security and technology in depth.