Agencies flagged security concerns over satellite internet of foreign operator

NEW DELHI: The challenge of regulating a satellite internet service controlled by a foreign operator is a key concern for Indian authorities as Elon Musk continues to target govt, alleging that Mukesh Ambani’s influence over it has been the main factor behind the SpaceX-run Starlink, owned by him, not being given a licence to offer its services in the country. Sources said that key ministries entrusted with security issues, including home and defence, besides intelligence agencies had flagged these challenges before the parliamentary committee on communication and information technology, which had taken up the matter. They further noted that authorities often resort to localised internet shutdowns when confronted with law and order challenges, including due to communal tensions, to curb the spread of “inflammatory” messages through social media platforms, and the emergence of satellite-linked internet service presents a tricky situation as its control remains abroad. There is also this concern about protection of data, which is increasingly gaining in salience for reasons of privacy as well as security. The committee chairperson, Nishikant Dubey, said nobody is against technology or foreign investment but security concerns must be addressed and there should be a level-playing field as well. Criticising Musk’s tirade on social media, Dubey said, “India cannot come under any foreign pressure. It has an independent policy and will do what is in the national interest.” The world’s richest person, who has drawn scrutiny for his sharp political stand on domestic affairs of different countries, has made a number of highly critical posts aimed at India, including one addressing Ambani as the prime minister, alleging that he was protecting his monopoly by not allowing SpaceX-run Starlink to operate in the country.

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Leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi has used his posts to sharpen his attack on govt for allegedly favouring a few big corporates, prompting BJP to recall Congress’s earlier concerns over Starlink and accusing him of reflexively backing any foreign interest critical of govt.

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