World · India Bureau
Owaisi hits out at Musk over India commentary despite Modi opposition
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said on Tuesday that while he opposes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's policies, foreign business leaders have no right to comment on India's government or issue directives to the nation. The remarks come amid tensions over Starlink's regulatory approvals.
LSN India ·
Owaisi drew a distinction between domestic political opposition and foreign interference, asserting that international figures should not weigh in on India's internal affairs. The AIMIM leader said he remains a vocal critic of Modi's government but stressed that no external party, regardless of wealth or influence, should presume to advise or direct India.
The comments target Tesla and SpaceX chief Elon Musk, who has recently engaged in public remarks regarding India's political landscape and governance. Owaisi's statement underscores concerns in Indian political circles about foreign billionaires attempting to influence domestic policy matters.
The controversy has intensified amid ongoing discussions about regulatory approvals for Starlink's operations in India. The satellite internet company has faced delays in securing government clearances, leading to speculation about the reasons behind the protracted review process. Owaisi's intervention suggests the matter has become entangled with broader questions about foreign stakeholder engagement in Indian policy decisions.
The rebuke reflects a rare point of consensus in Indian politics, where opposition to external interference in sovereign matters often transcends partisan lines. While Owaisi maintains his criticism of Modi's administration, his comments align with nationalist sentiment regarding India's independence from foreign actors' influence.