Politics · India Bureau
India dismisses Starlink claims amid escalating Musk row
Elon Musk has intensified his criticism of India's regulatory stance on Starlink, claiming the satellite internet service is licensed across 165+ countries. New Delhi has rejected the allegations, maintaining its position on the matter.
LSN India ·
The dispute between SpaceX's Starlink and Indian authorities has intensified as Elon Musk took to X to defend the satellite broadband operator's compliance record. Musk asserted that Starlink operates under licenses in more than 165 countries worldwide and has spent five years adhering to Indian legal requirements and government directives.
The Indian government has firmly rejected the allegations implicit in Musk's statement, according to sources familiar with the administration's position. Officials have maintained that regulatory decisions regarding Starlink's operations in India are based on national laws and established procedures.
Starlink, which aims to expand internet connectivity to underserved regions, has faced regulatory hurdles in India. The company requires approval from multiple government agencies before commencing commercial operations in the country, a process that has proven more protracted than in other markets where it operates.
The disagreement underscores broader tensions between Indian regulators and global technology companies over licensing conditions and compliance standards. The government has historically maintained strict protocols for foreign tech services, particularly those involving satellite communications and data infrastructure.