Senators Urge Elon Musk to Apologize Amid Starlink Approval Process in Pakistan

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Pakistani senators are calling for an apology from billionaire Elon Musk, accusing him of promoting anti-Pakistan sentiment while seeking approval for his Starlink satellite internet service. A senate committee met on January 22, 2025, to discuss Musk's application, which is pending regulatory clearance.

Committee chair Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan stated that several senators denounced Musk's recent comments on his social media platform X, where he highlighted allegations involving men of Pakistani origin in historic rape cases in Rotherham, England. These cases, which garnered significant media attention, involved the sexual exploitation of vulnerable girls over a 16-year period, leading to numerous convictions of individuals primarily from South Asian backgrounds.

While the senators are not demanding Musk's apology as a condition for Starlink's approval, it was a topic of discussion during the meeting. "It was said that approval should be given on condition of his apology," Khan noted. Musk's comments have stirred controversy in the UK and sparked debates about their potential to fuel Islamophobia.

Musk, who has recently taken on a political role, has been vocal against the UK government's reluctance to launch a national inquiry into the abuse cases. His comments have drawn both support and backlash, complicating his attempt to establish Starlink's presence in Pakistan.

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