Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite broadband services will remain on hold in Sri Lanka until the company guarantees the government’s right to access communication data for national security purposes.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) initially granted Starlink a license in 2024 under the previous government, but the current administration has raised concerns over data interception capabilities.
Deputy Minister of Information Technology Eranga Weeraratne stated that Starlink must ensure legal access to communication details in cases involving unlawful activities before services can be operationalized.
“There may be instances where Starlink services are used for illegal acts. Sri Lankan authorities must have the right to obtain relevant data for legal action,” he emphasized.
The TRCSL had approved five Starlink packages, ranging from Rs. 9,200 to Rs. 1.8 million per month, but the new government insists on revising the terms to include provisions for data interception.
Discussions involving the Defence Ministry and TRCSL are ongoing, with no immediate resolution in sight.
The delay highlights the balancing act between embracing advanced technology and ensuring national security, as Sri Lanka seeks to modernize its telecommunications infrastructure while safeguarding its interests.
Source: Daily Mirror
