Lawmakers to Expose Illegal, Hidden Fees Charged By Banks and Telcos

The Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue is launching an investigation into the extra charges imposed by telecom operators and banks amid growing public outrage over financial exploitation.

The committee has scheduled a meeting for April 1 at Parliament House to hear briefings from representatives of both sectors and scrutinize the structure and justification behind these additional fees.

Consumer complaints, particularly regarding unauthorized deductions and service charges, have sparked alarm over the lack of transparency. Lawmakers are expected to examine whether these charges violate consumer protection laws and if telecom and banking companies are fully complying with regulatory frameworks.

On social media, telecom users have been vocal about unauthorized mobile balance deductions linked to value-added services. In response, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued directives warning operators to stop such practices without consumer consent.

Beyond telecom and banking fees, the committee will also address proposals to grant honorariums to medical staff at Parliament House and salary concerns for faculty in the tenure track system.

Other items on the agenda include reviewing Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) matters, such as a request from the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry regarding the classification of PCT heading 3921, and the non-implementation of a presidential order issued in July 2025.