Congress leader raises concerns over Airtel and Jio’s partnership with Starlink, while Sunil Bharti Mittal calls it a milestone for global connectivity.
New Delhi, March 13: Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has alleged that the sudden partnerships between Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Starlink were orchestrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to curry favor with former U.S. President Donald Trump through Elon Musk.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Ramesh wrote:
“Within literally 12 hours, both Airtel and Jio have announced partnerships with Starlink, seemingly overcoming all their objections to its entry into India—which they have been voicing for quite some time. It is abundantly clear that these partnerships have been orchestrated by none other than the PM himself to buy goodwill with President Trump through Starlink’s owner Elon Musk. But many questions remain…”
Congress’ Concerns: National Security & Business Interests
🔹 Who Controls Indian Connectivity?
Ramesh raised national security concerns, questioning whether connectivity in critical situations would be controlled by Starlink or its Indian telecom partners.
🔹 Market Monopoly & Fair Competition
He also questioned if other satellite-based providers would be allowed to enter India and, if so, under what conditions.
🔹 Tesla-Starlink Connection?
Ramesh hinted at a possible link between Starlink’s entry and Tesla’s manufacturing plans in India, wondering if commitments were made behind closed doors.
Industry Leaders Welcome Starlink’s Entry
On the other hand, Bharti Enterprises Founder and Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal welcomed the partnership between telecom and satellite technology companies, calling it a “significant step towards global connectivity.”
🔹 Seamless Coverage Across Land, Sea & Air
Mittal emphasized that this partnership would enable uninterrupted mobile coverage, even in the most remote locations, including over oceans and in flight.
🔹 A Longstanding Vision for Universal Connectivity
He recalled his appeal at MWC 2017 in Barcelona, where he had urged telecom operators to lower international roaming charges. That appeal led to significantly reduced global roaming rates, making international mobile usage more affordable.
🔹 Telecom’s Evolution to Embrace Satellite Technology
Mittal asserted that just as telecom evolved from 4G to 5G and is preparing for 6G, it is only natural that it integrates satellite technology to ensure borderless mobile connectivity worldwide.
The Road Ahead: Business Breakthrough or Political Controversy?
As Airtel and Jio join hands with Starlink, the move is being seen as a major leap in India’s digital landscape. However, political allegations and national security concerns could complicate its execution.
With Elon Musk’s increasing influence in India’s telecom sector, the real question remains: Will India have full control over its satellite-based connectivity, or will it be dictated by foreign interests?
Tags:
Starlink India, Jairam Ramesh, Narendra Modi, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Airtel Jio Starlink, SpaceX India, Tesla India, Bharti Enterprises, global connectivity, telecom satellite partnership