Elon Musk questions Ambani’s influence as Starlink India launch stalls
“Is Ambani the real boss of India?” Elon Musk asked as he questioned why Starlink has yet to launch its satellite internet service in the country.
Elon Musk has questioned the influence of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani as SpaceX faces hurdles in launching its Starlink satellite internet service in India. Musk's comments on X escalated a dispute over regulatory delays, following India's rejection of Musk's claims that powerful business interests were blocking Starlink's entry.
Musk accused unnamed "oligarchs" of blocking Starlink's launch in India to maintain a "monopolistic chokehold" on the country, without evidence. He called this alleged blocking a "crime against the people of India" and argued that Starlink could provide affordable high-speed internet to those without access. India's Ministry of Communications defended its regulatory framework, stating it is "fair and non-discriminatory," and said all three satellite operators—including Starlink—are at the same regulatory stage and undergoing security assessments.
Musk further questioned Ambani's influence, asking "Is Ambani the real boss of India?" after Starlink's failure to secure a license despite years of compliance with Indian regulations. Musk's comments came after Starlink's vice president of business operations, Lauren Dreyer, reiterated the company's commitment to the Indian market at the India Mobile Congress.
Starlink has deployed more than 20 gateway sites and hundreds of antennas in India, adapting its operations to meet regulatory, security, and data-sovereignty requirements. Despite these efforts, Starlink's launch remains uncertain.
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