What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: Elon Musk has dismissed claims of Starlink’s involvement in Manipur’s ongoing conflict, following the recovery of a Starlink dish and router during a joint operation by Assam Rifles and Manipur Police on December 13. The equipment, found in the Imphal East district, was allegedly used by the insurgent group People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to bypass internet blackouts. This discovery has sparked concerns over the misuse of advanced satellite technology in sensitive regions.
The device was seized alongside an arsenal of weapons, including automatic rifles and grenades, as part of an extensive operation across Churachandpur, Chandel, and Kangpokpi districts. Security officials suspect the Starlink equipment was smuggled from Myanmar, where reports suggest widespread use of the service by insurgents and civilians in remote areas. Myanmar hosts an estimated 3,000 Starlink connections, despite the service being unauthorized in the country.
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Manipur has faced internet shutdowns amidst ethnic violence since 2023, leaving insurgents to explore alternative methods to maintain communication. The Starlink system, which relies on satellites in low Earth orbit rather than traditional telecom infrastructure, provides high-speed internet even in isolated regions, making it attractive for such uses.
Musk clarified on social media that Starlink has not received authorization to operate in India, emphasizing that the company geotags its devices to prevent unauthorized access. The U.S.-based SpaceX is seeking regulatory approval to launch its services in India but remains under scrutiny for potential misuse in conflict-prone areas.
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The Indian government is treating the discovery as a significant security threat. Investigations are underway to determine how the device entered India and whether it was used to facilitate attacks. The incident underscores the risks posed by satellite internet in circumventing communication controls and its implications for national security.
As the government evaluates Starlink’s application for a license, this episode raises urgent questions about balancing technological innovation with safeguards against misuse. The use of satellite internet by insurgents highlights the need for robust regulations and international cooperation to prevent its exploitation in conflict zones. For Manipur, this adds a complex layer to ongoing efforts to restore peace in the region.
