The Indian government has rejected claims that its regulatory framework is unfairly delaying Starlink’s launch in the country. The government said India follows a fair and non-discriminatory authorisation framework for all telecommunication services, including satellite communication services.
The response came after a social media post suggested that India’s satellite communication rules were being applied in a discriminatory manner. Elon Musk had earlier said that Starlink would like to operate in India and claimed that unnamed “oligarchs” were creating obstacles.
The government said telecom licences have been granted to three Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite service providers using non-geosynchronous satellite orbit-based technology. According to the government, the licences were issued as part of its effort to enable satellite communication services in India.
However, licence holders must meet specific security conditions before moving to the next stage. The government said these requirements are designed to protect users and their data while ensuring that satellite communication services meet India’s security standards.
Security assessments are currently underway for all three licensed companies. The government said that once the security assessment for a licensed entity is completed, the company can move to the next step of seeking spectrum assignment.
The government also clarified that all three companies are broadly at the same stage of the regulatory process. It said there is no separate treatment for any particular company.
The clarification comes as Starlink continues to seek permission to begin commercial satellite internet services in India. The company is expected to target areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited, including remote and underserved communities.
The government said the suggestion that India’s regulatory framework is unfair or discriminatory is “baseless and misconceived.” The statement indicates that Starlink’s launch will depend on completing the required security assessment and subsequent spectrum assignment process.
The development keeps attention on India’s growing satellite internet market, where global companies are preparing to offer high-speed connectivity through low-Earth-orbit satellite networks.