Government Probes Into Starlink's Device Usage by Unlawful Elements

Starlink, the satellite communications company led by Elon Musk, is under scrutiny in India after its devices were found in the possession of insurgents and smugglers. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Department of Telecom (DoT) have raised concerns over these findings, especially since Starlink has refused to disclose the original owners of the devices, citing data privacy laws.

The situation has prompted the MHA to request the DoT to investigate the matter promptly and take necessary actions. The recovery of these devices comes at a time when Starlink's license application to operate in India has been pending for years, primarily due to security concerns.

Starlink's Devices Found in High-Profile Cases

In a significant drug bust in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it was discovered that Myanmarese smugglers utilized Starlink's satellite internet services for navigation. Furthermore, in Manipur, Starlink devices were seized from insurgents during a military raid. These incidents have heightened the government's concerns over the potential misuse of satellite communication technology by unlawful elements.

Despite Elon Musk's public statement that Starlink's satellite beams are not operational over India, the discovery of these devices in the hands of criminals has raised questions about the security measures in place to prevent such occurrences.

Starlink's Licensing Process Under Review

The Indian government has emphasized that Starlink's application for a satellite communication license will only be considered once all security-related requirements are met. Union communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has made it clear that compliance with these conditions is non-negotiable for the company's operation in India.