Elon Musk has questioned Mukesh Ambani’s influence in India as his satellite internet company, Starlink, continues to await final regulatory approvals to launch commercial services in the country. The remarks have intensified the debate over competition in India’s rapidly developing satellite internet market.
The dispute centres on regulatory clearances, spectrum allocation and the entry of global satellite internet providers into one of the world’s largest digital markets.
Musk Raises Questions Over Starlink’s Entry
Musk recently accused unnamed powerful business interests of attempting to prevent Starlink from entering India. He later mentioned Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, questioning whether he was the “real boss of India”.
The SpaceX founder argued that Starlink had obtained licences in more than 165 countries and questioned why its Indian launch remained pending despite years of engagement with government authorities.
Government Rejects Claims of Unfair Treatment
India’s Ministry of Communications rejected allegations that the regulatory framework favoured particular companies. It stated that Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications were at broadly similar stages of the approval process.
According to the ministry, security clearances and spectrum allocation remain necessary before the operators can begin commercial satellite communication services.
Jio and Airtel Prepare for Satellite Internet
The competition involves major Indian telecom players as well as international satellite providers. Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel are preparing to expand into satellite connectivity, potentially increasing internet access in areas underserved by traditional networks.
In March 2025, Jio and Airtel signed agreements with SpaceX to distribute Starlink equipment and services in India, subject to government approval. The partnerships highlight how companies can cooperate commercially while competing in the wider connectivity market.
Security and Regulatory Concerns Remain
Starlink’s proposed entry has also raised questions about national security and network oversight. Indian authorities recovered Starlink equipment during investigations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Manipur in 2024.
Musk said at the time that Starlink’s service had never been active in India. The company has maintained that it has worked with Indian regulators and developed security measures to meet local requirements.
Can Starlink Improve Rural Connectivity?
Satellite internet could help connect remote villages, islands and regions where fibre-optic cables and mobile towers are difficult or expensive to deploy. Musk has argued that Starlink could serve people who lack reliable internet access.
However, affordability remains a major question. Starlink has not announced its Indian pricing, and the cost of subscriptions and equipment could determine how accessible the service becomes for ordinary households.
What Happens Next?
Starlink’s commercial launch depends on completing the required regulatory procedures. Meanwhile, Jio, Airtel and other satellite operators are also pursuing approvals and developing their services.
The dispute has brought attention to a broader question: how India can encourage investment and innovation in satellite connectivity while ensuring fair competition, national security and affordable internet access.
