Manipur News: Militant groups in Manipur are reportedly using Starlink satellite internet devices to stay connected during internet and mobile shutdowns imposed amid ethnic violence in the region, according to a report by The Guardian. These devices, manufactured by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, are not licensed to operate in India but are permitted in neighbouring Myanmar, the report claims.
The Guardian report, published on Friday, stated that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), a Meitei separatist militant group, admitted to using Starlink devices for internet access during government-enforced blackouts in Manipur. A PLA leader revealed that they initially operated the device in Myanmar and later found it functional in some parts of Manipur, especially areas near the Myanmar border.
Authorities Seize Starlink Devices in Raids
Last month, during a raid in Keirao Khunou, Imphal East district, security forces recovered a Starlink satellite device along with arms and ammunition. The raid, conducted by the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles, raised concerns about the unauthorised use of satellite technology in conflict zones.
While Starlink services are not legally allowed in India due to security concerns, the company has been seeking regulatory approval to provide satellite broadband in the country. Meanwhile, the Indian police suspect that such devices are being used by smugglers and militants to navigate and coordinate illegal activities.
Elon Musk’s Response
Addressing the controversy, Elon Musk clarified on X that Starlink beams are "turned off over India" and claimed they "were never on in the first place." This statement came after the Indian Army shared images from a December 13 raid in Manipur, showing a Starlink dish among the seized items.
Despite Musk's denial, a senior Manipur police official told The Guardian that preliminary investigations suggest Starlink services are operational in certain border areas of the state. However, the number of armed groups using the devices remains unclear, as other militant factions, including two Kuki and one Meitei group, denied accessing Starlink services.
Earlier in December, the Indian Coast Guard seized a boat near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands carrying a Starlink device and methamphetamine worth $4.2 billion. Police later issued a legal notice to Starlink, requesting purchase details of the device, but the company reportedly refused, citing data privacy laws.
Government Initiates Investigation
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to investigate the unauthorised use of Starlink in India. The MHA has also sought clarification from Starlink regarding ownership details of devices recovered during operations.
According to a source cited by The Times of India report, the government had previously written to Starlink following the Andaman and Nicobar seizure. However, the company declined to provide the requested information.