The Senate Standing Committee on IT & Telecom on Wednesday accused SpaceX CEO Elon Musk of adopting an anti-Pakistan stance over his recent comments on Starlink’s availability in the country.
Committee members accused Musk of siding with India against Pakistan to push a false narrative against the country. One senator proposed tying Starlink’s entry to Musk issuing a public apology.
Secretary IT noted that Musk’s problematic comments were misleading and there has been no direct linkup between the two sides for bringing Starlink to Pakistan.
Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman clarified that Starlink Internet cannot receive a license until the government grants security clearance. He informed the committee that Starlink will only come to Pakistan when its operations adhere to government policies and ensure traffic routes through designated gateways.
He also assured that Starlink has committed to not bypass Pakistan’s internet system.
The PTA Chairman said a dedicated Space Regulatory Authority has been set up to oversee satellite internet and other low Earth orbit (LEO) services. The Standing Committee requested a detailed briefing from the Space Regulatory Authority in the next meeting to address Starlink’s licensing and other space policy concerns.
One lawmaker questioned Starlink’s registry mechanism and the status of pending security clearances. She also criticized the IT Ministry for delegating its responsibilities, including the PECA law, to the Interior Ministry.