SpaceX founder Elon Musk has denied claims that Starlink satellite internet devices are being used in the strife-torn region of Manipur, India. This comes after security forces in Imphal East district’s Keirao Khunou conducted a raid and recovered internet devices, including one bearing a logo resembling Starlink. The raid also uncovered arms, ammunition, and other equipment, raising concerns over their usage in the ongoing ethnic violence.
The Indian Army’s Spear Corps shared images of the seized items on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), leading to speculation about the presence of Starlink devices in the region. A social media user pointed out the device and alleged, “@Starlink is being used by terrorists. Hope Elon @elonmusk looks into it and helps control misuse of this technology.”
Responding to the claim, Musk categorically denied any involvement, stating, “This is false. Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India.” Musk’s statement aligns with the fact that Starlink does not currently hold a license to operate in India.
The items seized during the raid included an “internet satellite antenna, an internet satellite router, and approximately 20 meters of FTP cables,” according to state police. Authorities are now investigating how the equipment reached Manipur, a region plagued by ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May last year. The violence has resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands homeless.
The presence of internet satellite devices in a region with restricted connectivity has raised questions about possible unauthorized use of global technologies. Agencies are closely examining whether such devices are being smuggled or illegally deployed in conflict zones.
Starlink, a satellite internet service provided by Musk’s SpaceX, has faced scrutiny in India before. In 2021, the company was asked to refund pre-orders for its devices and stop advertising in India due to the lack of necessary regulatory approvals.
This latest incident underscores the challenges of regulating advanced communication technologies in sensitive areas. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how such devices, potentially capable of bypassing traditional networks, could impact security dynamics in Manipur.
