MHA Reviewing Security Clearances for Satellite Communication Firms: Minister

The rollout of satellite communication services in India is currently awaiting security clearances from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Minister of State for Communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani said on Thursday, indicating that satellite communication companies are at a similar stage in the regulatory process.

Speaking on the sidelines of the India Mobile Congress 2026, Pemmasani said the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had already issued licences and provisional approvals related to spectrum for satellite communication service providers. However, final operational clearances depend on the completion of security assessments by the MHA. "Now the issue is pending with MHA for security clearance. As soon as it is cleared, they will get it. It has nothing to do with one company," the minister said.

His remarks came hours after the Centre rejected allegations by SpaceX founder Elon Musk that India's satellite communication regulations were being applied in a discriminatory manner.

The government has maintained that a fair and non-discriminatory authorisation framework is being followed for all satellite communication operators seeking to provide services in the country.

The Ministry of Communications said telecom licences had been issued to three Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) service providers using non-geostationary satellite networks. It said all three licensees are subject to the same regulatory and security requirements.

The ministry said the licensing framework was part of the government's effort to enable satellite communication services in India while ensuring compliance with security requirements and safeguarding users and their data.

"Security assessment as part of this process is currently underway in respect of all the three licensees," the ministry said.

The clarification assumes significance as satellite broadband companies, including Starlink, continue to await final approvals before beginning commercial operations in India.

The government has reiterated that all applicants are being treated under the same framework and that regulatory decisions are being taken according to established procedures and national security requirements.