Elon Musk has accused unidentified Indian oligarchs of blocking SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet network, citing a monopolistic hold over the industry. The Union government defends India's regulatory framework for satellite communication services.
Trillionaire Elon Musk has taken to social media to accuse 'certain oligarchs' in India of obstructing the launch of SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet network, asserting that they are safeguarding their 'monopolistic chokehold' over the industry. He did not disclose the identities of the individuals or companies he was referring to.
Musk expressed his sentiments in response to a post advocating for Starlink's deployment in India. The Union government, through the Ministry of Communications, has defended India's regulatory framework for satellite communication services, stating it is 'fair and non-discriminatory'. The ministry's statement did not specifically name Musk or Starlink but acknowledged a widely shared post on social media.
The Ministry emphasized that the government operates under a common authorization framework for all telecommunication services, including satellite communications. Licensees are required to adhere to 'security conditions'. The ministry also indicated that licenses have been granted to three providers, and these companies are currently at a similar regulatory stage. To progress, they must comply with the stipulated security requirements before proceeding to the next phase of obtaining spectrum.
SpaceX executive Lauren Dreyer had earlier expressed hope for Starlink's operation in India by 2027, according to The Hindu. Dreyer reported that Starlink had constructed 20 gateway sites, each with hundreds of antennas across India, and was prepared to offer an internet service compliant with India's 'security requirements and other regulations'.
Starlink will compete in India's satellite internet market against Reliance Jio Space Technology, owned by Mukesh Ambani, and Eutelsat OneWeb, backed by Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Airtel Group. Although Starlink has secured a Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite authorization from the Department of Telecommunications, it is yet to receive the security clearances necessary for operations.
Source:
Scroll.in
