Elon Musk Accuses Indian Industrialists of Blocking Starlink’s Entry in India

October 9, Kathmandu – American entrepreneur Elon Musk has accused certain industrialists in India of actively trying to block the entry of his satellite internet service, Starlink, into the country. Responding to a post on the social media platform X, Musk claimed that the real motive behind preventing Starlink’s expansion in India is to maintain the monopoly of these industrialists.

These comments from Musk came at a time when Starlink is progressing through the regulatory approval process in India. Although Musk did not name those industrialists, he implied that their actions obstruct Starlink’s entry. He wrote, “Unfortunately, some specific industrialists are stopping us to preserve their monopoly over the Indian people. You can imagine who they are. This is a crime against the citizens of India.”

Highlighting the continued lack of broadband internet access in many Indian villages, Musk emphasized the necessity of Starlink’s services. He asserted that Starlink could provide fast and affordable internet to those who either cannot afford current prices or have limited access in India.

Earlier on Wednesday, at the India Mobile Congress held in New Delhi, Lauren Dreyer, Vice President of Business Operations at Starlink, revealed that the necessary infrastructure for operating in India is under development. According to her, Starlink has already built 20 gateway sites in India. She also mentioned that security controls have been developed to keep Indian users’ data within the country. Dreyer added that once all the required approvals are secured from the Indian government, Starlink is prepared to launch its satellite broadband service in India soon.