New Delhi
Starlink has rejected reports suggesting that the Indian government has frozen approvals for its satellite internet services, asserting that discussions with authorities remain active and constructive. The clarification comes after a media report claimed that regulatory approvals for the Elon Musk-led company had been put on hold due to concerns related to the use of Starlink terminals during the Iran conflict.
Lauren Dreyer, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, said the company continues to engage positively with the Government of India and has received encouraging responses regarding its plans for the country. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Dreyer described reports of an approval freeze as misleading and based on unverified claims from anonymous sources.
According to Dreyer, Starlink has worked closely with Indian authorities throughout the regulatory process and has complied with all applicable security, compliance, and operational requirements. She emphasized that the company has adopted a customized deployment model designed specifically to meet India’s sovereign technology, regulatory, and security expectations.
The company believes its satellite-based internet services can play a significant role in expanding connectivity across remote and underserved regions of the country. Dreyer noted that government feedback regarding Starlink’s capabilities and potential contribution to India’s digital infrastructure goals has been positive.
Starlink has already applied for a license to offer satellite communication services in India and has received a Letter of Intent from the government. However, the company is still awaiting final regulatory clearance before launching commercial operations in the market.
The development is being closely watched as SpaceX, Starlink’s parent company, is reportedly preparing for a major public market debut. Reports indicate that the company is considering a Nasdaq listing that could value SpaceX at approximately $1.75 trillion, potentially making it one of the largest initial public offerings in history.