Before Starlink’s Entry, India Sets Conditions: Local Control Center and Call Interception for Security Agencies

Elon Musk’s Starlink is preparing to launch satellite internet services in India. However, before granting approval, the Indian government has set several conditions for the company.

One key requirement is that Starlink must establish a control center within India to regulate its services. This ensures that if the service ever needs to be suspended, it can only be done from within the country. Additionally, for data security reasons, Indian security agencies must be allowed to intercept calls and monitor data traffic.

Another condition mandates that satellite calls made to foreign destinations must first be routed through an India-based Starlink gateway before being forwarded via telecom channels abroad.

Licensing Process in the Final Stages

According to media reports, Starlink’s satellite communication licensing process is nearly complete. The company is also in discussions with Jio and Airtel for marketing and network expansion collaborations in India.

Why is a Control Center in India Necessary?

A control center in India is crucial to ensure immediate suspension of communication services in case of a law-and-order crisis in any part of the country. This includes satellite-based communication services, making the establishment of a local control center a necessary requirement.