India Regulators Challenge Starlink Over Laser-Linked Data Routing
Indian authorities are scrutinizing Starlink's use of inter-satellite laser links, which could route user data through gateways outside the country. They want all India-generated data to pass only through domestic gateways to comply with security and lawful interception rules.
Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet venture, is facing a fresh regulatory hurdle in India as officials raise concerns about how the company routes user data. According to reports, Indian regulators are examining Starlink's use of inter-satellite laser links, which allow data to be transmitted between satellites and potentially routed through ground gateways located outside the country.
Authorities are insisting that data generated within India must pass exclusively through domestic gateways to meet national security and lawful interception requirements. The government is reportedly considering restrictions on the use of Starlink's laser-linked satellite network for India-based traffic. If such restrictions are implemented, the company may be required to disable laser-link routing for Indian users and instead direct all traffic through ground infrastructure located inside India.
Source: First Squawk