Smuggled Starlink Devices Disrupt Internet Shutdowns in Conflict-Ridden Manipur

INIndia|

In the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, where violence has erupted between ethnic communities since May 2023, unlicensed Starlink satellite internet devices from SpaceX are reportedly being used by militants to bypass government internet shutdowns. Despite the Indian government's prohibition due to security concerns, sources indicate that these devices, which remain legal in neighboring Myanmar, are operational in parts of Manipur, particularly near the border.

The ongoing conflict has claimed over 250 lives and led to regular internet blackouts imposed by authorities as tensions escalate between the majority Meitei and minority Kuki populations. As internet access is disconnected during violent outbreaks, armed groups, including the People’s Liberation Army of Manipur, have turned to Starlink services to maintain communication.

One police source noted that Starlink's functionality in Manipur had been confirmed as the devices were smuggled into the region from Myanmar. Many civilians and militants reportedly utilized the technology during periods of government-imposed internet blackouts. In a notable instance, a resident in Imphal observed the use of a Starlink device during a wedding while internet service was cut off in the area.

Although Musk has expressed intentions to introduce Starlink in India, the telecom sector in the country is highly regulated, raising concerns about security risks associated with illegal internet access. This situation reflects a broader trend where India, having the highest number of internet shutdowns globally in recent years, may face challenges in controlling technology that enables circumvention of these restrictions.

The Indian Coast Guard previously encountered a Starlink device during their seizure of a boat suspected of drug smuggling, indicating the growing complexity around unregulated internet services in the country.

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