NEW DELHI: Starlink, the satellite internet service run by Elon Musk, is facing fresh scrutiny in India after its satellite communication devices were found in the possession of insurgents and smugglers. This has raised serious concerns within the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
The situation is further complicated by Starlink’s refusal to provide information about the individuals who originally purchased the devices, citing data privacy laws. Alarmed by the potential use of unauthorized communication channels by criminal elements, the MHA has instructed the DoT to immediately investigate the matter and take “appropriate steps,” sources said. Starlink did not respond to questions regarding the issue.
Concerns Over Use of Starlink Devices by Smugglers and Insurgents
The discovery of Starlink devices in the hands of illegal groups comes at a time when the company’s application for a license in India is still pending due to national security concerns. Sources revealed that after a significant drug haul in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands—where authorities seized 6,000 kg of methamphetamine—the government requested information from Starlink regarding the ownership of the devices found with smugglers. However, Starlink declined to share the details, citing data privacy laws.
A government investigation revealed that smugglers from Myanmar had been using Starlink satellite services for navigation. Andamans’ Director General of Police, Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, confirmed that the smugglers had operated satellite phones directly, creating a Wi-Fi hotspot.
In another incident in Manipur, Starlink devices were recovered from insurgents during a raid by the Army and Assam Rifles.
When a user on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted the recovery of these devices in Manipur and tagged Elon Musk, the billionaire denied that Starlink services were operational in India, stating, “This is false. Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India.” Despite Musk’s claims, the growing presence of Starlink devices among unlawful groups is raising alarms within the security establishment.
Government’s Response and Ongoing Dialogue
Starlink representatives have been in discussions with DoT and MHA officials, seeking clarification on any objections to their operations and asking for guidance regarding the sharing of information about their plans in India. Government sources said they are seeking additional details about Starlink’s security measures and will only grant permission for the service’s operations once they are satisfied that the company has taken appropriate steps to control illegal communications and data flows.
