India Rejects Starlink Service Over Security and Data‑Routing Risks

The Indian government has denied final approval for SpaceX's Starlink satellite‑internet service, citing national security concerns. Officials highlighted that the system's laser inter‑satellite link (LISL) could route Indian user data through foreign servers, potentially bypassing domestic oversight. Reports that Starlink terminals were used in Iran during regional conflicts added to the worry that the network could be exploited by hostile actors or that remote control of the constellation might be used against Indian interests in a future escalation with Pakistan or China.

Starlink has obtained a satellite‑communication licence but is awaiting clearance on these security points. The company says it is in active discussions with Indian authorities and has received encouraging feedback, while the ministry considers safeguards such as routing all Indian traffic through domestic gateways. The decision blocks SpaceX from one of the world’s largest markets and emphasizes India's drive to protect digital sovereignty.