Starlink’s India Plans Face Hurdle as Centre Flags Security Risks

Days after Airtel and Reliance Jio partnered with Elon Musk’s SpaceX for Starlink’s entry into India, the government has asked the company to set up a control center in the country.

According to a media report, this center would help maintain law and order by allowing authorities to suspend or shut down communication services in sensitive areas when needed.

The report also states that security agencies have specific mandates to enable call interceptions by law enforcement through official channels when required.

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Govt's Security Concerns: Starlink to Assess Control Center, Interception

A control center is essential as law-and-order situations can change suddenly, requiring the shutdown of communication services, including satellite networks. Authorities cannot contact Starlink’s US headquarters every time an emergency occurs, the report said, citing a source. Starlink has assured the government that it is looking into the matter.

The report also noted that under telecom law, the central and state governments have the power to temporarily take control of any telecom service or network during public emergencies, disasters, or for public safety.

Politics Over the Starlink Deals with Jio and Airtel

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned the recent Starlink deal between telecom giants and SpaceX. He accused Prime Minister Modi of arranging the deal to gain favor with former US President Donald Trump. On X, he pointed out that Airtel and Jio signed agreements with SpaceX just 12 hours apart, despite previously opposing its entry into India for a long time.

Past Ambani-Musk Starlink Feud

It is surprising that mukesh ambani’s Reliance Jio signed a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. This comes after months of tension between the two billionaires over the allocation of internet service airwaves in india.

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