Govt slams Elon Musk's allegations; says fair, non-discriminatory rules in place for satcom services

The Indian government has dismissed US entrepreneur Elon Musk's claims that his satellite communication service Starlink is being blocked in the country. The government maintains that there are fair and non-discriminatory rules in place for satellite services in India. Musk allegedly alleged on Wednesday that oligarchs have blocked Starlink services to maintain their monopoly in India.

The government clarified that all telecom licensees, including Musk's Starlink, need to demonstrate compliance with security norms before operating in the country. The government has granted licenses to three satellite communication companies - Musk's Starlink, Jio Satcom, and Eutelsat OneWeb - for starting operations in India. However, all these companies need to secure spectrum and security clearance before commencing service.

The telecom ministry stated that security assessment is currently underway for all three licensees. The government also emphasized that the suggestion of unfair or discriminatory application of the regulatory framework is baseless and misconceived. Musk had previously denied allegations that Starlink services were being used by militants in Manipur, claiming that Starlink beams are turned off over India.

In response to a tweet about lack of mobile coverage in over 11,000 villages in India, Musk tweeted alleging that he is being blocked to maintain a monopoly.