Indian authorities are investigating Elon Musk’s Starlink for its alleged illegal use by drug smugglers and insurgents. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Department of Telecom initiated the probe after discovering Starlink devices, not licensed for use in India, were being smuggled into the country from Myanmar, according to the Times of India.
The investigation gained momentum after the Indian Coast Guard seized 6,000kg of methamphetamines from a Myanmarese crew near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in November. Officials reported that the smugglers used Starlink-powered devices to create WiFi hotspots for communication. When the Indian government requested information on the ownership of the equipment, Starlink reportedly refused, citing data privacy laws.
In December, security forces confiscated Starlink devices in Manipur, a state in northeastern India that has been a hotspot for ethnic clashes since May 2023. Reports suggest that Starlink equipment has been used by armed groups, including the People’s Liberation Army of Manipur (PLA), to maintain internet access despite government-imposed blocks in the region.
Musk denied the allegations on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “This is false. Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India.” However, the service is operational in Myanmar, which shares a border with Manipur.
While Starlink is not authorized to operate in India due to security concerns, the company is pursuing an Indian license. Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia confirmed in November that Starlink is working to meet security requirements.
The Guardian recently reported that Starlink devices have been active in several parts of Manipur, citing sources from armed groups and law enforcement. These developments have added urgency to the ongoing investigation as India grapples with the security implications of unregulated satellite technology.
