Elon Musk and Starlink have denied reports that the company’s devices are being used in the violence-hit state of Manipur during internet and mobile shutdowns. The controversy arose after claims suggested that militant groups in the region were using Starlink to communicate. Musk clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that “Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India” and were “never on in the first place.” Lauren Dreyer, Vice-President of Starlink Business Operations, also confirmed that Starlink has never been operational in India.
Starlink won’t work in India today and never has. We look forward (hopefully soon) to government approvals to serve the good people of India that need connectivity,” Dreyer posted. Last month, security forces in Manipur raided Keirao Khunou in Imphal East district and seized various internet devices, arms, and ammunition.
Among the confiscated items was a Starlink satellite internet device. Although Starlink is not permitted to operate in India, it is allowed in neighboring Myanmar. A leader from the Meitei separatist militant group, the People’s Liberation Army of Manipur (PLA), claimed to have used Starlink devices to access the internet during internet blackouts imposed due to violent clashes.
Starlink denies claims in Manipur
However, there has been no confirmation on how many armed groups in the state have access to the satellite internet. Four other armed groups from both the Kuki and Meitei sides have denied using Starlink to access the internet.
Musk reiterated on X that Starlink’s beams over India were never operational. He also responded to a post from the Indian Army about a search operation in Manipur, in which a Starlink satellite dish and receiver were among the items seized. While Starlink has been seeking approval to provide satellite broadband services in India, the company is addressing potential security concerns as part of the approval process.
Earlier in December, the Indian Coast Guard seized a boat used for methamphetamine smuggling near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which had a Starlink device on board. Following this, the Ministry of Home Affairs asked the Department of Telecommunications to look into the matter and take appropriate steps. Questions sent to Starlink regarding these incidents did not elicit a response.
The government’s attempts to seek information about the ownership of the seized devices were reportedly rebuffed by the company, citing data privacy laws. This article has been updated to reflect the latest remarks by Elon Musk and Starlink.
