India’s communications ministry has strongly denied Elon Musk’s claim that Starlink is being discriminated against in satellite approvals. Officials said the licensing framework is equal for all operators and driven by national security requirements. They clarified that Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite are at the same stage of authorisation, awaiting spectrum allocation and security clearances.
Musk had alleged that certain oligarchs were blocking Starlink’s entry to protect monopolies, calling it a crime against the people of India. The ministry responded that rules are transparent and non discriminatory, with mandatory checks for every applicant. The Department of Telecommunications has proposed a five percent adjusted gross revenue spectrum charge, which is pending cabinet approval.
Starlink vice president Lauren Dreyer said the company has invested in India, built twenty gateway sites and tailored operations to meet security rules. She highlighted Starlink’s ability to connect remote villages where fibre and mobile networks are absent. Jio is building its own low earth orbit constellation while Amazon also plans entry. All players must meet strict foreign investment and security approvals before launch.
Despite BharatNet’s fibre rollout, more than eleven thousand villages still lack 4G coverage. The government insists on full control over satellite systems during emergencies. Starlink says it is aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of universal connectivity and promises rapid last mile access.
