January 4, 2025: Militant groups in ethnic violence-stricken Manipur have reportedly been using Starlink satellite internet devices during periods of government-imposed internet blackouts, according to The Guardian. The devices, developed by Elon Musk's SpaceX and not licensed for use in India, have raised security concerns after being seized during a recent raid.

Security forces raided Keirao Khunou in Imphal East district last month, recovering a Starlink device along with weapons and ammunition. While Starlink is not authorized to operate in India, it is reportedly permitted in neighboring Myanmar. Armed groups allegedly transported the devices across the border, exploiting their functionality in Manipur despite Musk's clarification that Starlink beams are disabled over India.

A leader of the Meitei separatist group, the People’s Liberation Army of Manipur (PLA), told The Guardian they initially used Starlink in Myanmar before discovering it worked in certain parts of Manipur, especially near the border. This claim aligns with reports from local authorities suggesting that the devices function in some border regions.

The use of Starlink has fueled concerns about its role in aiding navigation and coordination for militant activities during internet shutdowns. However, no clear evidence indicates the extent of its adoption, as other armed groups in the region denied using the devices.

The situation has reignited debates over the implications of unlicensed satellite technology and its potential misuse in conflict zones. Authorities continue to investigate how such devices are entering India and their impact on regional security.