Elon Musk steps up Starlink push, asks why India has not given licence; government says all three satcom firms are at same stage

New Delhi: Elon Musk intensified his campaign for Starlink's entry into India's satellite communication (satcom) sector, seemingly identifying at least one of the groups mentioned in his post on the previous day.

"Starlink is licensed in over 165 countries and has spent five years complying with every single law and requirement of the government of India, so why still no license?" Musk posted on X Thursday. "Is Ambani the real boss of India?"

Also read: Elon Musk says Starlink's entry in India 'blocked' by oligarchs, alleges 'monopolistic chokehold'


On Wednesday, Musk had accused unnamed "oligarchs" of blocking the US-headquartered satellite internet provider's entry to protect their business interests, calling it a "crime against the people of India." Musk said Starlink would help those who are poorest served and make broadband affordable for those who can't pay current prices. He made several posts on India, replying to various X handles.

The government, however, has categorically rejected Musk's claims of discrimination in India's satellite communications approval process, saying that all three entities-Bharti Group-led Eutelsat Oneweb, Mukesh Ambani-owned Jio Satellite and Starlink-are at the same regulatory stage. These three companies are yet to get the necessary security approvals that would make them eligible to buy the spectrum they need to launch commercial services in the country. Jio didn't respond to queries about Musk's comment.

The communications ministry said operators must demonstrate compliance with security conditions before moving to the next step of seeking spectrum assignment. "Under the terms and conditions of licence, every such licensee is required to demonstrate compliance with security conditions.

This is aimed at ensuring that services provided meet various security requirements to ensure safety of all users and their data," the ministry said in its statement. "Security assessment as part of this process is currently underway in respect of all the three licensees. As and when this process is completed for a licensed entity, it may proceed to the next step of seeking assignment of spectrum."