Starlink device caught second time in India, In recent weeks, Indian authorities have seized Starlink devices in two separate incidents, raising concerns about their unauthorized use within the country.
First Incident:
- Date: Late November 2024
- Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Details: During an operation, police intercepted a Myanmarese boat carrying over 6,000 kg of methamphetamine, marking one of India’s largest drug seizures. Among the confiscated items was a Starlink internet device, allegedly used for navigation.
Second Incident:
- Date: December 16, 2024
- Location: Manipur, India
- Details: The Indian Army’s Spear Corps, in collaboration with local police, conducted operations in multiple districts of Manipur. They recovered a cache of weapons, grenades, and a Starlink device inscribed with “RPF/PLA,” suggesting a connection to the Revolutionary People’s Front/People’s Liberation Army, a known militant group in the region.
Starlink’s Status in India:
- Operational Status: Starlink, a satellite internet service by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is not authorized to operate in India. The company is in the process of obtaining the necessary licenses and security clearances to offer services but has not commenced operations.
- Elon Musk’s Statement: In response to these incidents, Elon Musk stated that Starlink’s satellite beams are turned off over India and were “never on in the first place,” indicating that any devices found are not receiving active service from the company.
Concerns and Implications:
- Unauthorized Use: The presence of Starlink devices in India, especially in sensitive regions like Manipur, raises concerns about their procurement and utilization by unauthorized entities, including militant groups.
- Security Risks: Such devices can facilitate unmonitored communication, potentially aiding illicit activities and posing challenges to national security.
Ongoing Investigations:
Indian authorities are investigating how these devices entered the country and their intended use. The possibility of smuggling from neighboring regions, such as Myanmar, where similar devices have been reportedly used by rebel groups, is being explored.
These incidents underscore the need for stringent monitoring of unauthorized communication devices to safeguard national security and prevent their misuse by illicit entities.
