The Indian government is reportedly accelerating the evaluation process for Starlink’s application for a satellite communication license, owned by Elon Musk. Despite this review, concerns loom large regarding the company’s alleged ties to US security agencies.
Starlink could potentially secure “conditional approval,” contingent on fulfilling certain commitments outlined during the application process, according to reports. This development coincides with Musk’s scheduled visit to India later this month, where discussions with PM Narendra Modi are expected to include plans for a Tesla factory.
A specialized committee within the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is currently scrutinizing Starlink’s application. However, unresolved issues, notably regarding Starlink’s purported collaboration with American intelligence agencies, could lead to conditional approval, according to insider sources cited by ET.
The oversight of Starlink’s case is anticipated to shift to the Digital Communication Commission (DCC), a high-level panel comprising key officials from various ministries. The primary focus remains on Starlink’s ownership structure and its potential links to US security entities.