Control center, call interceptions—Modi government sets demands for Starlink's launch
What's the story
India's central government has asked Elon Musk's satellite venture, Starlink, to establish a control center in the country, as per a TOI report.
This facility would allow the suspension or shutdown of communication services in sensitive areas when required for law and order.
Further, authorities are also demanding provisions for call interceptions by law enforcement agencies through official channels when required.
Licensing progress
Starlink's license application enters final phase
Starlink's application for a satellite communications license is almost done. The company is working with Reliance Jio and Airtel for marketing, deployment, and network enhancement.
A control center is considered critical as sudden changes in law-and-order situations may require immediate suspension and shutdown of communication services, even those offered via satellites.
Telecom regulations
Telecom law provisions for emergency situations
The Indian telecom law has provisions under which the central or state government can take "temporary possession" of any telecom service, or network from an authorized entity during a public emergency (including disaster management) or in the interest of public safety.
These regulations also include provisions for internet shutdowns.
The call interception requirement isn't new, as per the TOI report, and is already a mandate for existing terrestrial networks run by Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea.
Routing guidelines
Satellite communication companies instructed on call routing
Satellite communication companies have been directed to not transfer calls directly through the satellite network.
They are to route them back to their Indian gateway and then use conventional communication channels for interception.
For example, if you use a satellite phone service to call someone in France, the call will first return back to India's point of presence (PoP), before taking conventional telecom channels like undersea cables.