On ‘Starlink’ device used by militants in Manipur, Elon Musk clarifies

NEW DELHI: Elon Musk has dismissed allegations that Starlink’s satellite internet technology was being misused in India after a device bearing the company’s logo was recovered during a security operation in conflict-ridden Manipur. Responding to claims on social media, Musk said that “Starlink satellite beams are turned off over India” and were “never on in the first place.”
The response came after the Indian Army’s Spear Corps posted on X about joint operations with the Assam Rifles and local police in Manipur’s hill and valley regions. The post included photos of the recovered items, which ranged from weapons and grenades to what appeared to be a Starlink-branded device. The caption detailed the seizure of 29 weapons, including sniper rifles, pistols, mortars, grenades, and other “war-like stores.”

A user responded to the army’s post, suggesting that Starlink technology was being used by militants in the region, prompting Musk’s clarification. Security forces involved in the operation noted that the device, allegedly used by insurgents, featured inscriptions associated with local militant groups and might have been smuggled in through Myanmar, where Starlink devices are reportedly in use despite the company lacking operational permissions in the country, news agency Reuters reported quoting officials.

Authorities have initiated investigations into how the internet device entered India and whether it is an authentic Starlink product. Notably, Starlink has yet to secure a licence to operate in India, though the company has been actively seeking approval to launch its satellite broadband services.
The discovery comes as tensions remain high in Manipur, a state that has seen over 220 deaths and ongoing ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May last year. While Musk has categorically denied Starlink’s involvement, security officials remain cautious, given reports of similar devices being employed in Myanmar by rebel groups.
This isn’t the first time Starlink has faced scrutiny in India. Earlier this month, authorities seized a Starlink device during a record-breaking $4.2 billion methamphetamine bust at sea. Police have since issued a legal notice to the company, requesting details about the purchaser and usage of the device.