Signal Desk · Economy

Tharoor says Starlink should face same licensing rules as rivals

2026-10-19 · 1 source · Economic Times India

In short

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said Starlink should go through the same licensing process as other firms. He said consumers should be able to choose between satellite internet services. The report says this came as Elon Musk raised concerns about delays in getting a licence in India.

The issue matters because it could affect who enters India’s satellite internet market and how fast. It is not stated when Starlink might get approval.

What the reporting says

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said Starlink should follow the same licensing process as other companies and that consumers should decide among satellite internet options. The publisher summary says he also noted the government’s view that all companies are facing equal delays, while Elon Musk has raised concerns about obstacles to Starlink getting a licence in India. The immediate outcome remains unclear, including when or whether approval will come.

Why it matters

Shashi Tharoor on Monday argued that Starlink should receive the same licensing treatment as other companies in India, according to the publisher summary. He said consumer choice should decide the market, while the government says all companies face similar delays. The reporting also notes Elon Musk’s concerns about licensing obstacles. The story affects the satellite internet rollout, but no approval timeline or regulatory decision is stated.

Touches: SpaceX, Global, Companies

Sources