Why Elon Musk is taking on India’s richest man over Starlink

Elon Musk has questioned whether billionaire Mukesh Ambani is "the real boss of India" as his satellite internet company Starlink faces final approval to launch in the country. Musk accused unnamed powerful business interests of trying to block Starlink's entry into India, singling out Ambani whose Reliance conglomerate owns the dominant mobile network operator Jio.

India has rejected Musk's allegations, stating its satellite communication rules are fair and non-discriminatory. Both Musk and Ambani have not responded to the BBC's requests for comment. The dispute arises as competition in India's satellite internet market intensifies, with both Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel preparing to launch services.

Starlink has partnered with both companies, but the row complicates matters further. In March 2025, Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel signed agreements with SpaceX to distribute Starlink equipment and services in India, pending government approval. Despite being licensed in over 165 countries, Starlink is still awaiting final security clearances and spectrum allocation in India.

The Ministry of Communications dismissed Musk's claims, saying the framework and its application are neither unfair nor discriminatory. Musk continued to question the delay, arguing that Starlink has complied with all Indian laws and requirements.