Actor, filmmaker, and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan has publicly pushed back against Elon Musk's recent criticism regarding the licensing process for Starlink, his satellite internet venture, in India. Haasan strongly affirmed India's sovereign right to determine its own policies, stating that no billionaire should dictate a nation's agenda.
India's Right to Regulate
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) dated October 9, 2026, Haasan directly addressed Musk's questioning of why Starlink had not received a license in India despite operating in over 165 countries. Musk had also fueled speculation by asking if industrialist Mukesh Ambani was the "real boss of India," implying regulatory favoritism for domestic businesses.
"Mr. Musk, yes, no billionaire should dictate a nation’s policy — Indian or American," Haasan wrote, defending India's telecommunications sector regulations. He stressed the importance of competition in satellite internet services, advocating for affordable connectivity, particularly in remote regions, and stringent national security safeguards.
Affordability and National Security
Haasan highlighted that while India welcomes both domestic and international satellite internet providers, their offerings must be practical and affordable. He cautioned that high subscription fees and equipment costs could make such services inaccessible to ordinary households in a country with relatively low per-capita incomes.
"Connectivity must bridge the digital divide, not create a new one," Haasan stated, advocating for competition based on which provider delivers the most affordable and effective last-mile connectivity.
Furthermore, the actor-politician emphasized that telecommunications networks and spectrum are strategic national infrastructure, not merely commercial assets. Consequently, he asserted that India's national security safeguards are non-negotiable.
Challenging Western Double Standards
Haasan also used the opportunity to challenge what he described as Western double standards concerning free-market competition. He argued that countries often protect their domestic industries and impose restrictions on foreign companies when national interests are at stake.
He cited examples such as the United States' 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and the restrictions placed on Huawei in both India and the US. "One cannot demand a level playing field from others only when it suits its own agenda," Haasan remarked, underscoring that every country makes choices based on its own interests.
Acknowledging Domestic Challenges
While staunchly defending India's regulatory independence, Haasan also acknowledged shortcomings within the country's own digital connectivity initiatives. He referenced findings from the Comptroller and Auditor General's 2026 audit report on BharatNet, a government program aimed at extending broadband to rural areas.
The audit, as cited by Haasan, found that only 33.2% of service-ready Gram Panchayats were operational despite an expenditure of ₹39,888 crore. He noted that India must address these performance issues while simultaneously appreciating its telecom sector's success in making internet data among the world's most affordable, bringing millions online.
Concluding his robust statement, Haasan unequivocally declared, "India is a democracy, not a colony. We welcome the world, but we, the Indian people, will decide our own future - not Western vested interests, their double standards or any billionaire - Indian or American."