Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, is allegedly being used by militant groups in India’s conflict-ridden state of Manipur to bypass government-imposed internet shutdowns, sources have revealed.
Despite being unlicensed in India, the satellite service is accessible in neighboring Myanmar, allowing it to function in areas near the border.
Manipur has been embroiled in violent conflict since May 2023, with ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki populations leading to over 250 deaths.
In response, the government has repeatedly cut off internet access, sometimes for weeks or months. However, Starlink devices have reportedly allowed civilians and armed groups to stay connected during these shutdowns.
Sources within armed groups, including the Meitei separatist group, the People’s Liberation Army of Manipur (PLA), confirmed the use of Starlink devices to access the internet in areas where government restrictions were in place. The PLA initially used the devices in Myanmar before realizing they also worked across the border in Manipur.
While Elon Musk has expressed interest in launching Starlink in India, the service is currently under scrutiny by the Indian government due to security concerns.
Telecoms, including satellite internet, are tightly regulated in India, with experts warning that Starlink could be used to circumvent internet blackouts. India has had the highest number of internet shutdowns globally for the past seven years.
In addition to Manipur, Starlink devices have been found in other parts of India. In December, the Indian Coast Guard seized a Starlink device from a boat in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which was reportedly being used for navigation and internet access in connection with smuggling activities.
