Musk renews criticism of Ambani over Starlink opposition in India

Tesla and SpaceX chief Elon Musk has escalated his public dispute with Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, alleging that online advocates for the billionaire tycoon are orchestrating opposition to Starlink's entry into the Indian market. Musk's comments represent the latest volley in a simmering disagreement over satellite internet services and spectrum allocation in Asia's third-largest economy.

The confrontation underscores the high commercial stakes surrounding Starlink's ambitions in India, where regulatory approval remains pending. Reliance, which controls significant telecommunications infrastructure and spectrum holdings through Jio, has positioned itself as a major player in India's digital economy. The company's interests in terrestrial broadband services potentially conflict with Starlink's satellite-based offering.

Musk's accusation that organized digital campaigns are being deployed against Starlink reflects broader tensions in India's tech sector, where major industry players vie for regulatory favor and market share. The dispute comes amid ongoing discussions between SpaceX and Indian authorities regarding licensing and operational conditions for satellite internet services.

Reliance and Ambani have not immediately responded to Musk's latest remarks. The controversy highlights how India's expanding digital infrastructure has become a flashpoint for competition between global technology titans and domestic conglomerates seeking to shape the nation's connectivity landscape.