Jairam Ramesh Alleges Modi Orchestrated Starlink Deals to Appease Trump; Shiv Sena Hits Back

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Thursday raised questions over the timing of Elon Musk’s Starlink deals with India’s leading telecom providers, Jio and Airtel, alleging that the agreements were “orchestrated” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to “buy peace with Donald Trump” amid ongoing global trade tensions.

Ramesh pointed out that both Jio and Airtel had previously opposed Starlink’s entry into India over its demand for direct spectrum allocation instead of a government auction, which has been India’s policy since 2014. However, within just 12 hours, both telecom giants announced partnerships with Starlink, raising suspicions.

‘Friendship-Buying Move’ with Trump?

Speaking to ANI, Ramesh claimed the timing of Starlink’s agreements was aimed at pleasing Trump, who has been vocal about India reducing tariffs and import duties.

“This is clearly why Airtel and Jio’s move with Starlink has been orchestrated by the Prime Minister—to buy peace with Mr Trump through Mr Musk. The Prime Minister hopes that by keeping Mr Musk happy, he can keep Mr Trump happy,” he alleged.

Shiv Sena Dismisses Allegations as ‘Conspiracy Theory’

Responding to Ramesh’s claims, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC dismissed the allegations, accusing Congress of indulging in baseless conspiracy theories.

“Jio and Airtel are independent entities that have chosen to partner with Starlink on their own. There is no threat to India’s national security, so stop this mischievous attempt at creating a conspiracy,” she said.

Starlink’s Entry into India

On Wednesday, Mukesh Ambani’s Jio announced it would offer Starlink solutions through its retail and online platforms, just hours after Airtel made a similar announcement, calling it India’s first Starlink partnership.

Both deals remain subject to regulatory approvals in India and the US before implementation.