Musk questions Ambani's influence as Starlink awaits India launch

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has questioned the influence of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani as Starlink continues to await approval to launch its satellite internet service in India.

Musk said on social media that Starlink had spent five years complying with Indian government requirements but was still unable to begin operations. He questioned whether Ambani was the country's “real boss”, a day after accusing unnamed oligarchs of maintaining a monopolistic grip on the Indian market.

Reliance Jio, controlled by Ambani, is India's largest telecoms operator. Together with rival Bharti Airtel, it accounts for around 80% of the country's telecoms market.
Musk's comments drew a response from Rahul Gandhi, leader of India's opposition Congress party, who suggested he would encounter another powerful businessman, Gautam Adani. Musk responded that the situation was troubling.

Starlink's entry into India has faced delays despite agreements signed with Jio and Airtel in March 2025 to explore opportunities to distribute its satellite internet services.

Starlink received an operating licence in July 2025 but has yet to launch commercially.
Bloomberg reported in June 2026 that the Indian government had frozen approvals amid security concerns over the use of Starlink terminals before the service was authorised to operate.

Meanwhile, Jio is developing its own low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications plans. Local media reports say the company has proposed a network of around 1,600 satellites and 23 ground stations to expand connectivity across India.

Jio Platforms managing director Akash Ambani said this week that India needs its own indigenous technology stack, according to local media. The company's satellite plans could place it in competition with Starlink, which operates a constellation of thousands of satellites and provides services in more than 170 countries and territories.

The dispute comes as Musk's other major business, Tesla, also struggles to gain traction in India. Reports indicate that the electric vehicle maker has sold just over 1,000 cars in the country since launching there in 2025.

More Articles you may be Interested in...