NEW DEHLI: Elon Musk has confirmed that Starlink satellite internet is inactive in India, following the seizure of two devices. The seizures took place in distinct situations, including an armed conflict zone in Manipur and a drug smuggling operation. Starlink is working to obtain approval from India to provide its satellite broadband services. The company aims to address security concerns as part of the approval process.
Musk’s Clarification:
Musk clarified on X that “Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India” and stated they “were never on in the first place.” His comments followed a post from the Indian Army, which detailed a search operation conducted on December 13 in Manipur. The area has been embroiled in conflict since the beginning of last year. In the operation, the army discovered a Starlink satellite dish and receiver along with seized weapons.
Military sources familiar with the operation disclosed that the Starlink device was likely used by militant groups. They suspected the device had been smuggled through India’s porous border with Myanmar. Although Starlink does not operate in Myanmar, previous reports have linked the device’s use to rebel factions in that country.
Earlier, Indian police had sought detailed purchase records from Starlink regarding a device found on smugglers’ boats. Authorities had captured the smugglers at sea, seizing $4.2 billion worth of methamphetamine in one of the largest drug hauls in the country’s history. Police believe the Starlink device could have been used by the smugglers for navigation.
Starlink’s operations in India have faced delays and complications. The company has been cautious about ensuring that its technology does not violate local laws or raise security concerns. The scrutiny surrounding Starlink’s use in illicit activities has now increased. India’s authorities are focused on making sure no security risks arise from the technology. Meanwhile, the company is in talks with officials to secure the approval necessary for its full-scale operation in the country.
As the investigation into the use of Starlink continues, it remains unclear whether further legal complications or operational hurdles will delay its service launch in India.
