Security forces have confiscated two Starlink satellite devices during recent raids in Manipur’s Imphal East district, fueling speculation about the use of satellite internet in India. SpaceX founder Elon Musk has since clarified that Starlink’s satellite beams have not been activated in India, addressing growing concerns about the devices’ origins and usage.
In a late-night post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk stated, “Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India and were never on in the first place.” The clarification followed an announcement by the Indian Army, which shared images of the seized devices alongside weapons recovered during a search operation. According to military officials, the devices—bearing the Starlink logo—were being used by a militant group active in the region.
The ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands since May of last year. Authorities suspect that the seized Starlink equipment was smuggled into India via its porous border with Myanmar, a country embroiled in civil war where similar devices have reportedly been used by rebel groups. Despite these reports, SpaceX has confirmed that Starlink services are not operational in Myanmar either.
Indian law enforcement has escalated its scrutiny of Starlink’s presence in the region. Earlier this month, police submitted a legal request to the company, seeking information about a Starlink device discovered during a major smuggling operation at sea. The operation uncovered $4.2 billion worth of methamphetamine, leading to suspicions that the satellite device was employed for navigation.
The controversy comes as Starlink continues to seek regulatory approval from the Indian government to officially launch its satellite broadband services in the country. The Musk-owned company is reportedly working to address security concerns as part of the approval process.
Security experts and analysts warn that advanced satellite communication systems could pose significant challenges for law enforcement, particularly in conflict zones like Manipur. Meanwhile, Indian authorities are intensifying efforts to clamp down on illegal cross-border activities, including smuggling and the unauthorized use of high-tech devices.
As investigations continue, the seizure of the Starlink equipment has reignited discussions about the role of advanced technologies in insurgent operations and the broader implications for national security.
