Musk-Ambani feud takes new turn as RSS wing targets Starlink

Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), an affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), urged the Indian government on Tuesday to deny a satellite internet license to Elon Musk’s Starlink, adding a new dimension to the ongoing feud between Musk and billionaire Mukesh Ambani.

The SJM called on the central government to withhold approval and condemned Musk’s "irresponsible" comments aimed indirectly at industrialist Mukesh Ambani and the Indian administration, according to a report by The Print.

On Saturday, Musk criticized Ambani by sharing news screenshots alleging that a Reliance-backed entity helped boost the BJP’s social media campaigns and that an associated firm made substantial political donations to the ruling party.

Earlier, Musk referred to Ambani as "Prime Minister Ambani" on X (formerly Twitter), accusing him of protectionist business practices and slamming delays surrounding Starlink’s entry into India.

Reliance has not publicly reacted to Musk’s allegations. Meanwhile, the Indian government stated that telecom and satellite licensing policies remain "fair and non-discriminatory," dismissing claims of selective policy application as baseless.

SJM National Co-Convener Ashwani Mahajan stated that India holds full rights to reject Starlink if the company fails to satisfy national security concerns.

He noted that stalling Starlink sends a clear message to trade partners like the US that India prioritizes legitimate national security considerations.

Mahajan criticized Musk’s approach, noting that Starlink applied for a commercial satellite broadband license in India, which remains pending without being formally rejected.

He added that instead of answering government queries on national security, Musk opted to launch indirect attacks against Indian businesses and the government.

The SJM leader alleged that Musk is trying to build public pressure on the government to secure a license or speaking out of frustration after failing to meet regulatory conditions.

Mahajan highlighted security concerns, pointing out that maintaining law and order during riots, protests, or anti-national propaganda often requires temporary internet shutdowns.

He expressed concern over Starlink’s satellite laser-link technology, warning it could allow Indian internet traffic to bypass local gateways through foreign infrastructure, thereby complicating lawful interception and regulation.

He added that satellite internet outside traditional telecom networks could be exploited by hostile groups, smugglers, and insurgents.

Mahajan stated that SJM’s safety concerns draw from Starlink’s operational history in countries like Ukraine, Iran, Russia, China, Taiwan, South Africa, Brazil, Venezuela, and Sudan.

Recalling India’s 5G rollout, Mahajan highlighted how SJM opposed Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE over security fears, leading to domestic 5G technology development, known as 5Gi.

He asserted that rejecting Starlink will not hinder India’s satellite internet ambitions, noting that indigenous technology can provide affordable, secure coverage even if delayed slightly.

He concluded that withholding approval on national security grounds will spur the growth of domestic satellite internet services and ensure affordable connectivity in remote areas.

-SA