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Owaisi criticises Modi government over Starlink delays amid Musk row

AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi has waded into the growing controversy surrounding Starlink's entry into India, criticising the Modi government's handling of the satellite internet company's licensing delays.

LSN India · 16 October 2026

Owaisi criticises Modi government over Starlink delays amid Musk row

The political row intensified after Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX and Tesla, publicly questioned the prolonged delay in granting regulatory approval to Starlink for operations in India. Musk's intervention drew sharp reactions from various quarters, with questions raised about foreign business figures commenting on India's policy decisions.

Owaisi, the AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha member, seized on the controversy to articulate his opposition to the Modi government's approach. His remarks underscored growing frustration among opposition voices over regulatory delays affecting major technology ventures.

The Starlink controversy reflects broader tensions between India's regulatory framework and the commercial interests of major international technology companies seeking market entry. Starlink had previously obtained licenses for satellite internet services but has faced delays in commencing operations, citing regulatory hurdles.

The incident highlights the intersection of foreign direct investment concerns, national security considerations, and India's evolving digital infrastructure policy. Industry observers have noted that clarity on regulatory pathways remains critical for attracting major satellite communication ventures to India's growing telecommunications sector.