Reliance Industries has responded to criticism from billionaire Elon Musk over delays in launching his satellite internet service, Starlink, in India, asserting that the country’s regulatory framework applies equally to domestic and foreign companies.

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In a statement on Friday, October 16, 2026, Reliance said it had never feared competition and welcomed investment and innovation from both Indian and international businesses. The company said it wanted to put the facts on record following recent remarks concerning Reliance and the Indian market.

“Like every Indian enterprise, Reliance has grown in an India that welcomes investment and innovation, homegrown or international, that improve the lives of the people,” the company said in its statement.

Reliance also emphasised that its own satellite services were awaiting regulatory approvals, arguing that satellite internet providers must follow the same approval process. The company presented this as evidence that India’s regulatory system is not designed to favour one business over another.

The exchange comes amid growing attention on satellite-based internet services in India, where Starlink is seeking to establish a presence. The service, operated by Musk’s SpaceX, uses satellites to provide internet connectivity and is intended to serve areas where conventional broadband infrastructure may be limited.

Reliance rejected suggestions that it opposed competition, pointing to the expansion of its telecommunications business since Jio’s launch in 2016. The company said India’s openness to investment operates alongside the rule of law and a regulatory framework that businesses must respect.

The debate highlights the importance of licensing and regulatory clearances in India’s emerging satellite communications market. While companies are competing to expand connectivity, the timing of commercial launches depends on meeting the applicable government requirements.

For consumers, the entry of additional satellite internet providers could eventually offer more connectivity options, particularly in remote and underserved areas. However, the extent of competition will depend on regulatory approvals, service availability, pricing and the providers’ ability to establish their operations.

Reliance’s statement places the focus on equal treatment under the rules, as India’s satellite internet market attracts interest from major domestic and international players.