India rejects Elon Musk’s claim of discrimination over Starlink launch

India’s Ministry of Communications has rejected claims by SpaceX chief Elon Musk that the Starlink satellite internet service is being unfairly blocked from launching in the country. Musk alleged that unnamed oligarchs are maintaining a monopolistic chokehold, calling the delay a crime against the public. The ministry responded that its regulatory framework is fair and non-discriminatory, noting that Starlink and two other licensed operators are at the same regulatory stage and undergoing mandatory security assessments before seeking radio frequency spectrum.

Starlink has spent over five years trying to enter the market of more than a billion subscribers, facing past setbacks including a 2022 order to refund preorders. The company has set up local operations, appointed a leader, built dozens of ground gateway sites, and secured agreements with telecom giants Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.

While India decided to allocate satellite spectrum administratively rather than through auctions—aligning with Starlink's preference—the exact launch timing remains unclear.