I AM writing on behalf of my aunt who returned to Pakistan on June 10 after a pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. My aunt and another family member had bought a cellphone in Saudi Arabia. We were aware that on their return, the phones would have to be registered. However, when we tried to register our phones via the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority, it didn’t go through.

Why? Because an account already existed against our details.

Their data, it seems, has been misused by individuals at the airport. Interestingly, this is not a problem limited to my family. I have heard of similar cases all over the country. A friend of mine told me that this data (gathered at the airport) is sold in the market to shopkeepers so they can register their phones without paying taxes. Recently, the government changed its policy, and now everyone coming into the country has the option to register one mobile on his/her passport for free.

I hope the authorities concerned will look into this matter immediately.

Nazia Zameer
Lodhran

(2)

THIS refers to the letter ‘Mobile registration’ (July 18). I agree with the writer. As a student, I realise a mobile phone is one of our basic needs as it helps us stay in touch with our families and for quick research purposes.

Recently the federal government imposed a 50 per cent tax on mobile registration which means that if my phone cost Rs10,000 I have to pay almost Rs5,000 as tax.

This is very tough on us financially. Many students will not be able to afford to pay this and eventually their phones will be blocked.

I request the government to be a little lenient and give students some discounts.

Soda Akram
Kech

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2019