Use of Smuggled Starlink Devices in Manipur: A Growing Security Concern

Starlink Constellation of Satellites in the sky

Manipur, a northeastern state of India, has been experiencing prolonged ethnic violence, political instability, and security challenges. Amid the ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, reports have surfaced that smuggled Starlink satellite internet devices are being used by militant groups to bypass government-imposed internet shutdowns. This development has raised concerns over national security, digital surveillance, and the role of advanced technology in aiding insurgent activities.

Background: Internet Shutdowns in Manipur

Since May 2023, the government of Manipur has frequently imposed internet shutdowns to curb the spread of misinformation, prevent the coordination of violent activities, and maintain law and order. While these restrictions aimed to control unrest, they also severely impacted civilian communication, businesses, and access to essential services. However, despite these stringent measures, insurgent groups have managed to stay connected using alternative means.

Smuggling of Starlink Devices

Starlink, a satellite-based internet service operated by SpaceX, provides high-speed internet access even in remote and conflict-ridden areas. Although Starlink is not officially available in India, reports suggest that these devices have been smuggled in from Myanmar, where the service is legally operational. Militants and other groups in Manipur have allegedly acquired these devices through black-market networks, enabling them to bypass the government’s internet shutdowns.

Starlink Antenna

Starlink Device being smuggled - illustration purpose only.

The smuggling process involves several illicit networks operating along the India-Myanmar border. Given the porous nature of this border, traffickers and insurgents exploit hidden routes to transport Starlink terminals and accessories into Manipur. These devices are reportedly sourced from regions in Myanmar where Starlink is widely used, often through underground traders who operate within insurgent-controlled areas. Additionally, some reports suggest that intermediaries, including local sympathizers and tech-savvy operatives, play a crucial role in setting up and distributing the equipment. These networks employ clandestine methods, such as using unregistered vehicles, disguising equipment within legal shipments, and leveraging corrupt border officials to facilitate their movement.

Authorities believe that the demand for these devices has increased, with militants willing to pay a premium for uninterrupted and undetectable internet access. The illegal distribution of Starlink kits has made it difficult for security forces to track insurgent communications, further complicating efforts to maintain control over the region’s security situation.

How Starlink is Being Used

The use of Starlink devices by insurgents has significantly altered the digital communication landscape in Manipur. Some key applications of these devices include:

• Encrypted Communications: Militant groups are reportedly using Starlink to establish secure, encrypted communication channels, making it difficult for security forces to intercept their conversations.
• Coordination of Attacks: By leveraging uninterrupted internet access, insurgent groups can effectively plan and execute coordinated attacks across different locations.
• Dissemination of Propaganda: Social media and online platforms have been used to spread information, mobilize supporters, and influence public perception.
• Avoidance of Surveillance: Traditional internet connections can be monitored by government agencies, but satellite-based networks operate independently, making tracking efforts more complex.

Security and Legal Implications

The use of smuggled Starlink devices in Manipur poses several critical challenges for national security and law enforcement agencies:

1. Evasion of Government Control: Internet shutdowns are rendered ineffective if groups can access independent satellite networks.
2. Increased Militancy Threat: Advanced communication tools give insurgent factions a tactical edge over security forces.
3. Cybersecurity Risks: The inability to monitor digital activity in insurgent-controlled areas could lead to data breaches and other cyber threats.
4. Violation of Indian Telecommunications Laws: The unauthorized import and use of foreign satellite communication devices violate existing regulations.

Government Response

The Indian government is reportedly considering multiple countermeasures to address this issue:

• Legalizing and Regulating Starlink: One approach being discussed is permitting Starlink to operate legally in India under strict regulatory supervision.
• Crackdown on Smuggling Networks: Authorities are intensifying border security and surveillance to prevent the illegal import of satellite internet devices.
• Technological Countermeasures: Efforts are being made to develop technology that can detect and disrupt unauthorized satellite communications.

The smuggling and use of Starlink devices in Manipur highlight the growing intersection of technology and security threats in conflict zones. While satellite internet offers significant benefits in terms of connectivity, its misuse by insurgent groups poses a serious challenge for law enforcement. The Indian government must balance technological advancements with national security concerns, ensuring that such innovations do not fall into the wrong hands. Addressing this issue will require a combination of policy changes, stricter enforcement, and strategic technological interventions.