Starlink Satellite Internet Smuggled into Manipur Amid Ongoing Conflict

In the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, civilian and armed groups are reportedly using SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet to bypass government internet shutdowns. The satellite service is unlicensed for use within India, but its proximity to Myanmar, where it is permitted, has allowed users to access the technology.

The unrest in Manipur has persisted since May 2023, leading to over 250 fatalities as conflict arises between the majority Meitei and minority Kuki populations. Given the escalating violence, the Indian government has imposed repeated internet blackouts, sometimes lasting weeks or months.

According to sources from both armed groups and local law enforcement, Starlink has become a vital tool during these shutdowns. A leader from the Meitei separatist group, the People’s Liberation Army of Manipur, revealed that Starlink devices were initially used in Myanmar but have now crossed into Manipur.

Authorities are increasingly aware of the illegal use of Starlink devices, particularly in regions close to the Myanmar border. One police official stated that they believe the devices have been smuggled from Myanmar into Manipur. While some locals have reported witnessing the use of Starlink during internet outages, not all armed groups have confirmed its usage.

The implications of this development are significant, as the Indian government has long maintained strict regulations over telecommunications to manage security risks. Notably, Starlink's future in India remains uncertain, despite Elon Musk’s aspirations to launch the service in the country.