The National Assembly Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology, led by Senator Palwasha Khan, discussed Starlink’s licensing in Pakistan during a session on Wednesday. The focus was on security clearance and the role of Starlink’s owner, Elon Musk, in recent controversies.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman stated that Starlink’s registration, submitted in February 2022, is under review by the Pakistan Authority for Space and Regulatory Bodies (PASRB). This authority will finalize the decision.
Senator Palwasha Khan criticized Musk for supporting anti-Pakistan narratives on social media. She accused him of endorsing false allegations against Pakistan, aligning with India’s stance.
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Senator Afnan Ullah Khan suggested that Starlink’s approval should hinge on Musk issuing a public apology. The PTA was urged to consider Musk’s comments before granting the license.
Despite this, Starlink was officially registered in Pakistan, confirmed by IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja and acknowledged by Musk on platform X, where he revealed ongoing negotiations with the government.
Musk has faced backlash for endorsing controversial remarks by Priyanka Chaturvedi, an Indian MP, blaming Pakistan for grooming gang issues in the UK. His support for this narrative has further strained relations amid Starlink’s licensing efforts.
