A US national and a companion were detained at Srinagar International Airport on Sunday after a satellite phone was recovered from their luggage during routine screening.
The police later confirmed that the US national was arrested after the seizure, while the other person was also questioned by security officials before being handed over for further investigation.
The incident comes against the backdrop of India’s restrictions on satellite communication devices. According to the Hindustan Times, satellite phones are not allowed in the country without prior government approval. Visitors traveling across India must obtain written permission from the Department of Telecommunications before transporting or using such equipment.
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Satellite phones need approval
Strict regulations apply to satellite phones like Thuraya and Iridium. According to the Indian Telegraph Act and other security regulations, its unlawful possession may result in imprisonment, arrest, and seizure.
PTC News reported that the American was identified as Jeffrey Scott Prather, while the other detained person was Haldar Koushik from Kolkata. Authorities questioned both men after discovering the satellite phone in their luggage, according to the outlet.
In India, the Department of Telecommunications requires individuals to declare their satellite phones upon arrival and obtain prior permission for their use.
A familiar pattern
The Hindustan Times further linked the case to a broader pattern of enforcement, noting previous occurrences involving unlicensed satellite systems.
Last May, Puducherry airport officials stopped a US-based ophthalmologist after discovering an Iridium satellite phone in her possession. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation had asked airlines in January last year to alert passengers about the ban through in-flight announcements, overseas offices, and onboard publications.
