SJM Demands Starlink Ban in India Over National Security Concerns

SJM’s protest erupted at Teen Murti Chowk on Oct. 13, where activists chanted slogans like "Elon Musk haay haay" and demanded the government deny Starlink permission to launch commercial satellite broadband services in India.

The organization argues that Starlink’s constellation of low‑Earth‑orbit satellites, with inter‑satellite laser links, could prevent authorities from forcing traffic through domestic gateways, thereby hindering internet shutdowns, lawful interception, and regulatory oversight during emergencies.

Starlink already secured a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite licence from the Department of Telecommunications and authorisation from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre, yet it remains stalled while security assessments are carried out. The Ministry of Communications said the reviews apply to all licensed operators, not just Starlink, and that no decision has been made to block the service.

Elon Musk has publicly accused powerful domestic players of obstructing competition, while the government has denied that its approval process favours particular companies. Musk’s comments come amid a broader debate over India’s digital sovereignty and the role of foreign technology providers.

If the government sides with SJM, Starlink’s commercial launch could be postponed until security clearances are granted, and the move may spur investment in indigenous satellite‑internet initiatives. The ministry has indicated that a final decision will be taken within the next few weeks, with the next hearing slated for early November.