SJM Demands Ban on Elon Musk's Starlink Over Security Risks
Swadeshi Jagaran Manch calls for a ban on Starlink, citing national security threats and potential data bypass risks.
The Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), an affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has intensified its opposition to Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service, Starlink. The organization has formally called for a ban on the platform, labeling it a "significant threat to national security."
The primary concern raised by the economic wing of the RSS involves the technical architecture of the Starlink network. According to SJM leaders, the service could potentially bypass India's established regulatory frameworks and internet gateways.
Data Sovereignty and Surveillance Concerns
Speaking on the matter, SJM National Co-Convener Ashwani Mahajan explained that Starlink’s use of laser technology to transmit messages between satellites poses a unique challenge to Indian oversight. He warned that this capability could allow domestic user data to be transferred overseas without the knowledge or supervision of Indian authorities.
"Starlink utilises laser technology to transmit messages between satellites, potentially bypassing India's designated internet gateways; this means data could be transmitted abroad without Indian oversight, creating a major security risk," Mahajan stated.
The organization also highlighted the alarming discovery of unauthorised Starlink terminals in various parts of the country. There are growing apprehensions that such equipment could be exploited by:
- Smugglers
- Terrorist organizations
- Other criminal elements
Mahajan noted that if this technology falls into the wrong hands, it could trigger severe law-and-order crises across the nation.
Accusations of "Arm-Twisting" the Government
The demand for a ban comes amidst recent friction between Elon Musk and Indian regulatory bodies. The SJM has hit out at the billionaire for his public remarks regarding market access and licensing in India. Mahajan accused Musk of attempting to "arm-twist" the Indian government by claiming that the state favours certain companies over his own.
"Elon Musk has chosen a public forum to seemingly pressure the Indian government... However, we know that India has consistently fostered competition in the telecom sector; this competition has resulted in India having the cheapest data in the world," Mahajan asserted.
The "Wolf in Sheep's Clothing" Argument
The security debate is further fueled by a research paper from the Delhi-based Kutniti Foundation titled "An appraisal of technology for geopolitical control." The report offers a scathing critique of the satellite network, suggesting it serves more than just commercial interests.
The foundation argues that Starlink acts as an instrument for U.S. geopolitical influence, describing the service as a "wolf in sheep’s clothing." The report posits that while the company markets itself as a way to provide connectivity to underserved areas, it actually functions as a vital asset for the "U.S. Intel-Military-Industrial complex."
Key Geopolitical Risks Identified:
- Weaponised Interdependence: The report suggests that controlling a global network hub allows a power to both observe and deny access to others.
- Intelligence Integration: It claims Starlink could facilitate U.S. intelligence programs, such as the ECHELON network, by using space-based sensors that bypass local governance.
- Dual-Use Technology: Citing existing contracts with the U.S. Department of Defence and the Space Force, the report labels the technology as "dual-use," capable of aiding missile tracking and battlefield communications.
- The "Kill-Switch" Threat: The paper warns of a pattern where service availability is restricted based on the political preferences of the U.S. government or its allies.