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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Technology
Aakash Hassan and Hannah Ellis-Petersen in Delhi

Smuggled Starlink devices allegedly used to defy India’s internet shutdowns

A soldier checks a car at a checkpoint in Bishnupur, Manipur, India,
Fighting in the north-east state of Manipur began in May 2023 and has not yet been brought under control by authorities. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

Elon Musk’s satellite-based Starlink – currently unlicensed for use in India – is being used by militant groups in the conflict-ridden state of Manipur to circumvent government internet shutdowns, fighters and security sources have said.

The satellite internet service provider, operated by Musk’s SpaceX company, is not permitted to legally operate in India amid security concerns but is allowed by Myanmar, which neighbours Manipur.

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