Ram Madhav Defends Indias Telecom Regulations Amid Musks Comments

New Delhi, October 9 (Daily Kiran) : Political tensions have escalated in India regarding the licensing of Starlink, following comments made by Elon Musk and Rahul Gandhi on social media. Ram Madhav, the National Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), took aim at both figures during a press interaction.

Madhav emphasized that Musk should recognize that India is not a “banana republic” where he can make statements at will. He stated, “In India, all matters related to spectrum and telecom are governed by laws and regulations. Under the Modi government, everything will be conducted transparently and according to the rules.”

He further criticized Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, questioning why Gandhi, who previously accused the Modi government of surrendering to figures like Trump and Musk, is now eager to facilitate Musk’s access to spectrum. “Why is he in such a hurry to ensure that Elon Musk gets a license?” Madhav asked.

Madhav pointed out that all leading telecom companies in India would be competing with Starlink, and any licensing decisions would be made without discrimination, in accordance with established regulations.

He also referenced Jairam Ramesh, the Congress Communications Secretary, noting the irony in Ramesh’s previous claims that Starlink posed a security threat to the country, while Gandhi now endorses Musk’s initiative. Madhav reminded the public of the corruption associated with the spectrum allocation system during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, asserting that under the Modi administration, all processes would be conducted lawfully.

Musk had previously posted on the social media platform X, questioning why Starlink had not received a license in India despite meeting all regulatory requirements over five years. In response, Gandhi welcomed Musk to India, indicating his support for the venture.

The ongoing debate highlights the intersection of technology, politics, and national security in India as the country navigates its regulatory landscape.