The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology in Pakistan is currently discussing the potential launch of Starlink internet service, which is contingent on obtaining security clearance and necessary licensing.

PTA Chairman Maj-Gen (retd) Hafeezur Rehman expressed optimism that the issues surrounding Starlink's licensing could be resolved within a month.

Before Starlink can launch its services in Pakistan, it must secure security clearance and obtain Long Distance & International (LDI) and Local Loop (LL) licenses from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, has applied for permission to provide services in Pakistan and is registered as a holding of Netherlands BV Starlink (SpaceX), seeking to establish 2-3 ground stations for satellite internet.

The committee noted that Starlink operates globally without reported interference with terrestrial systems or geostationary satellites, which allows for non-exclusive operations.

Member Afnanullah Khan suggested that Starlink's licensing should be contingent on Musk issuing a public apology for his controversial statements regarding Pakistan.

Concerns were raised by committee chair Palwasha Khan about Musk's previous claims involving Pakistanis and grooming gangs in the UK, which she labeled as targeted disinformation.

The IT secretary highlighted the sensitivity of providing satellite internet services in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for compliance with PTA regulations.

The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023 was also discussed, with emphasis on its delays due to government changes, despite having been approved by the Cabinet in 2022.

The committee expressed urgency in finalizing the Personal Data Protection Bill, stressing the importance of robust data protection measures.

Additionally, the performance of the Telecom Foundation was reviewed, noting its operation of 15 schools and an expected revenue generation of Rs1 billion, with plans for independent operation from the government.

The National Satellite Policy was approved in December 2023, with implementation overseen by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).