Elon Musk Takes Dig at Ambani Over Starlink’s India Entry

NEW DELHI : Elon Musk has escalated his public spat over Starlink’s entry into India, taking a sarcastic swipe at Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani and questioning whether market power is standing in the way of competition. Addressing Ambani as “Dear Prime Minister Ambani”, the billionaire entrepreneur alleged that established business interests were seeking to protect their dominance in the country’s telecom market.

In a post on X, Musk urged India to allow his satellite internet company to compete, arguing that better connectivity could benefit millions of people in underserved areas.

“Please forgive my mistake in not realizing that you are the true owner of India,” Musk wrote, using sarcasm to criticise what he portrayed as barriers to Starlink’s entry.

He also highlighted the potential benefits of satellite internet for rural communities, students and small businesses.

“There are many areas in India—as in every country—that lack internet access,” Musk wrote. He argued that poor connectivity limits educational opportunities and prevents small businesses from reaching global markets.

Musk Questions India’s Telecom Market

Musk has repeatedly questioned the delay in securing permission to launch Starlink services in India. He said the company had received approval to operate in more than 165 countries and had spent years working to meet Indian regulatory requirements.

His central argument is that satellite spectrum and market access rules should allow multiple operators to compete, rather than favouring established players.

The dispute comes as satellite internet companies seek a foothold in India, one of the world’s largest internet markets. Starlink’s entry could expand connectivity in remote villages, mountainous regions and areas where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited.

However, satellite services must comply with Indian rules covering spectrum allocation, national security, data protection and lawful interception. These requirements are central to the licensing process.

Rahul Gandhi Joins the Exchange

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi responded to Musk’s question about Ambani’s influence with a pointed remark.

“Welcome to India, Elon. Just wait until you meet the other guy,” Gandhi wrote on X.

His reference was widely interpreted as a dig at industrialist Gautam Adani. Gandhi has frequently accused the Narendra Modi government of favouring major corporate groups, including Adani and Ambani.

Musk replied: “Thanks, Rahul. This is truly troubling.”

The exchange has brought the debate over corporate influence, competition and government regulation back into the political spotlight. However, the social media posts do not, by themselves, establish that any company has blocked Starlink’s licence.

Centre Rejects Allegations of Discrimination

The Centre has rejected claims that India’s satellite communication rules discriminate against Starlink. The government has maintained that the regulatory framework applies equally to companies seeking to provide satellite-based services.

The issue highlights a broader question: how can India protect national security while ensuring fair competition in a rapidly growing digital market?

Starlink’s India Preparations

Starlink has reportedly established 20 gateway sites in India, supported by hundreds of antennas. These ground stations connect satellites to terrestrial internet networks and help route data between users and the wider web.

The company has also signed memorandums of understanding with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel. It has reportedly signed letters of intent with the governments of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Meghalaya to explore local service opportunities.

These arrangements point to preparations for a potential launch, but they should not be confused with final regulatory clearance or a confirmed nationwide rollout.

What Starlink Could Mean for Consumers

Starlink uses satellites in low Earth orbit to deliver internet connectivity through a dedicated dish and Wi-Fi router. The technology can serve locations where laying fibre-optic cables is difficult or expensive.

Potential applications include online education, telemedicine, disaster response and rural commerce. Greater competition could also encourage existing providers to improve their services.

However, satellite internet equipment and subscriptions may cost more than conventional broadband in some markets. The actual impact on Indian consumers will depend on pricing, licensing conditions, coverage and competition.

For now, Musk’s public attack has sharpened the debate over Starlink’s India ambitions. The key test will be whether regulatory approvals translate into accessible, affordable services for consumers across the country.