Washington: Elon Musk has taken a sarcastic swipe at India’s power structure while urging the country to allow his satellite internet service, Starlink, to compete in the Indian market.
In a post on X, Musk addressed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “Prime Minister Ambani,” suggesting that industrialist Mukesh Ambani holds significant influence over the country’s decision-making.
Musk sarcastically apologised for failing to recognise Ambani as “the real boss of India” and questioned whether Starlink could be allowed to compete with existing internet service providers despite what he described as monopolistic interests.
Highlighting the potential benefits of satellite internet, Musk said many areas in India, as in other countries, still lack internet access.
He argued that improved connectivity could provide children with better educational opportunities and enable small businesses to sell their products in global markets.
The remarks reflect the broader debate over competition, market access and the role of major business groups in India’s telecommunications sector.
Starlink, operated by Musk’s SpaceX, aims to provide internet connectivity through a network of satellites, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
Its entry into India has been a subject of regulatory and commercial interest as the country continues to expand its digital infrastructure.