Sri Lanka President Questions Starlink’s Role in National Security
- CNL Reporter
- May 6, 2025
- Political
- Starlink’s
- 0 Comments
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has raised serious national security concerns over the government’s initial agreement with Starlink, citing its failure to provide authorities access to critical user data.
Unlike local telecom providers who assist law enforcement, Starlink’s data system remains off-limits to the Sri Lankan government. The President stressed that access to communication data had been key in thwarting crimes, including the Arugambay attack and recent court shooting.
“Organized crime thrives on digital networks,” he said, highlighting how current telecoms aid criminal investigations. However, with Starlink, “there’s no one accountable in Sri Lanka, and no guaranteed access,” he added.
Although Starlink has promised a data dashboard, the government remains uncertain about its capabilities. Despite these reservations, the government has allowed necessary equipment imports to build the system. The President warned that this lack of access poses a significant risk to national security.
