Starlink faces regulatory delays in India over security concerns

Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite‑internet service is awaiting final approval to operate in India. While the company secured an initial Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licence last year, the Ministry of Home Affairs has postponed the required security clearance. Officials cited reports that Starlink terminals were allegedly used in the Iran conflict, raising questions about oversight of foreign‑controlled satellite networks and prompting a review of data‑storage and security guidelines.

Starlink has filed affidavits outlining compliance measures, set up about ten gateway stations and a hub in Mumbai, and continues to engage with Indian authorities. The delay highlights India’s focus on communications sovereignty and could postpone the commercial launch of a service aimed at reaching the country’s large underserved rural broadband market, while investors watch the impact on SpaceX’s international expansion.