The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), an economic affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), urged the Indian government to deny Starlink permission to launch commercial satellite broadband services in the country. The organisation cited national security concerns and criticised Elon Musk’s recent remarks about the government and Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani.
The demand comes as Starlink continues to await final regulatory clearances for its Indian operations. SJM national co-convener Ashwani Mahajan said, “India could refuse permission if the company failed to address the country's security requirements.”
National Security Concerns Over Satellite Internet
SJM raised concerns about Starlink’s satellite network and its potential implications for internet monitoring and law enforcement. Mahajan argued that satellite-to-satellite laser links could allow internet traffic to bypass domestic gateways. Thus, making it harder for Indian authorities to monitor communications and enforce applicable regulations.
The organisation also questioned whether authorities could restrict internet access during emergencies involving terrorism, riots, protests or other law-and-order situations.
SJM warned, “Hostile actors, smugglers and insurgent groups could exploit satellite connectivity to communicate beyond conventional telecom networks. It maintained that internet traffic originating in India should pass through gateways within the country.”
Musk-Ambani Dispute Intensifies
The demand follows Musk’s public criticism of Ambani over Starlink’s delayed entry into India. Musk has questioned whether powerful business interests are preventing the satellite internet provider from entering the market to protect Reliance Jio’s position.
He also addressed Ambani as ‘Prime Minister Ambani’ in a social media post, questioning the industrialist’s influence over the approval process. Musk argued that Starlink has spent years meeting Indian regulatory requirements without securing the final clearances needed to launch.
However, the government must balance wider internet access with security, regulatory oversight and domestic infrastructure requirements. Starlink’s entry will depend on the outcome of the remaining assessments and its compliance with applicable conditions.
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