Reliance says Musk's Starlink is welcome, not feared

Reliance Industries expressed its welcome towards competition in satellite broadband, including the prospective entry of Elon Musk's Starlink, following the latter's recent criticism and urging of Mukesh Ambani's conglomerate to permit such competition. In a formal statement, Reliance emphasized that all entities, both domestic and foreign, must adhere to identical regulatory procedures, noting that Jio's satellite services were also seeking clearances.

The company's stance emerged amidst a public disagreement over Starlink's arrival in India's satellite communications arena, with Musk publicly criticizing Reliance and questioning the competitive dynamics. Reliance reiterated its commitment to an open sector for investment and innovation, provided companies adhere to the nation's laws and regulations.

The conglomerate reiterated that all participants, including Jio, must serve the people of India and comply with the country's laws and policies. Reliance dismissed any notion of fearing competition, drawing parallels to Jio's introduction into the highly competitive telecom market in 2016, which, despite being a newcomer with no pre-existing customer base, successfully garnered the trust of over 530 million customers and contributed to the provision of affordable data and digital infrastructure throughout India.

The company affirmed that its receptivity to domestic and international investments was contingent upon the rule of law, citing the government's assertion that the same process should apply uniformly to all applicants, irrespective of their nationality.