CPI(M) Demands Cancellation of Starlink Deal

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New Delhi – The Communist Party of India (Marxist) – CPI(M) Polit Bureau has strongly opposed the deal between Jio, Airtel, and Elon Musk’s Starlink for providing high-speed satellite internet services in India.

In a statement, CPI(M) expressed serious concerns regarding spectrum allocation and national security. The party pointed out that the Supreme Court, in the 2G spectrum case, had clearly ruled that spectrum is a scarce national resource and can only be allocated to private companies through an open and transparent auction process. Therefore, any direct agreement with Starlink would be a violation of Indian laws.

Concerns Over Spectrum Allocation and National Security

CPI(M) has accused Jio, Airtel, and Starlink of forming a cartel to dominate satellite spectrum, which could negatively impact millions of telecom users in India. The party further stated that satellite spectrum is not just a commercial issue but a strategic national security concern.

Risks of Dependence on U.S.-Based Starlink

CPI(M) cited the example of Ukraine, where the U.S. allegedly threatened to shut down Starlink services for the Ukrainian military, forcing President Zelensky to make compromises on the country’s natural resources. Given this precedent, allowing an American company to control India’s strategic satellite spectrum and orbital slots poses a grave risk to national sovereignty.

CPI(M) Urges Government to Intervene

The party has demanded that the government immediately cancel the Starlink deal and ensure that all decisions regarding spectrum allocation prioritize national security. CPI(M) has also called for judicial intervention in the matter.

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