Syllabus
GS Paper 3 – Internal Security – Role of external state and non-state actors.
Context
The Reasi terrorist attack on June 9, which coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third swearing-in, mirrors the attack on the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Herat, Afghanistan, on May 23, 2014, just before his first inauguration.
Source
The Hindu| Editorial dated 28th June 2024
Reasi and the ‘years-old’ issue of cross-border terror
The Reasi terrorist attack on June 9, which coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third swearing-in, mirrors the attack on the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Herat, Afghanistan, on May 23, 2014, just before his first inauguration. Both incidents appear aimed at embarrassing and enraging India during significant political events. This pattern underscores the persistent terrorist threat India faces, particularly from groups linked to Pakistan.
Cross – Border Terrorism
Cross-Border Terrorism is a form in which soil of one country is used to create terror in bordering countries. It is considered as an undeclared war and a strategic approach to weaken a nation over time with minimal efforts.
Factors Facilitating Cross-Border Incursion
- Porous Borders
- Easy Crossings: India’s borders with many neighbors are porous and easy to cross.
- Geographical Challenges: Complex terrains like mountains and deserts make physical barriers difficult.
- Security Management: Inadequate strategic thinking and ambivalence in border management.
- Support from Non-State Actors
- Political Discord: India’s strained relations with Pakistan lead to material support for militants in regions like the North-East and Jammu and Kashmir.
- Proxy Movement: Pakistan facilitates the movement of its proxies with the aim of creating terror.
- Internal Support
- Local Assistance: Local populations may aid terrorists due to ethnic affiliations, monetary incentives, fear, or dissatisfaction with governance.
- Facilitation: Providing transportation and safe havens for terrorists.
- Corrupt Officials
- Bribery: Some officials may allow illegal migrants entry for bribes, facilitating criminal elements’ movements.
Border Issues in India
- Indo-Pakistan Border: Direct access and technological advancements have shifted the focus of border security. Terrorism is exacerbated by non-recognition of boundaries by Pakistani terrorist groups.
- Indo-Bangladesh Border: Complex terrain makes illegal migration easy, posing security threats and enabling smuggling of arms and drugs.
- Indo-China Border: Long-standing disputes and constant vigilance are required, although illegal migration is less common.
- Indo-Nepal Border: Open border facilitates smuggling and terrorist infiltration.
- Indo-Bhutan Border: Militant camps in Bhutanese jungles aid insurgents.
- Indo-Myanmar Border: Insurgent groups operating from Myanmar pose security threats.
- Maritime Borders: Long coastline remains vulnerable, as demonstrated by the 26/11 attack where terrorists arrived by sea.
Steps Taken by India
- Institutional Measures
- National Investigation Agency (NIA): Established in 2008 to combat terror.
- Multi-Agency Centre (MAC): Coordinates counter-terrorism intelligence.
- Combating Financing of Terrorism Cell (CFT-Cell): Addresses terrorist financing and fake currency issues.
- International Cooperation
- FATF Membership: India is a member of the Financial Action Task Force, which combats money laundering and terrorist financing.
- Global Initiatives: India’s efforts to push for a global convention on terrorism (CCIT) since 1996.
- Border Security Enhancements
- Surveillance and Fencing: Implementation of modern surveillance equipment, border fencing, and flood lighting.
- Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS): Electronic surveillance replacing manual patrolling.
Way Forward
- Policy Reassessment
- Border Management: There is a need for strategic thinking in intelligence, internal security, and border management.
- Technical Solutions: Augment traditional methods with technology to enhance surveillance and detection.
- Military Specialization
- Precision Engagement: Develop capabilities to strike terror camps across the LoC and LAC.
- Trained Manpower: Combine skilled personnel with affordable and tested technology.
- Societal Support
- Public Morale: Ensure societal support in the fight against terrorism to prevent a decline in morale and resolve.
Conclusion
Cross-border terrorism remains a significant challenge for India, characterized by persistent threats from terrorist groups operating from Pakistan and other neighbouring countries. Despite diplomatic efforts and strategic responses, such as the use of military strikes and pre-emptive doctrines, India continues to face complex security issues exacerbated by porous borders, internal support for terrorism, and inadequate international cooperation from some neighbours.
Related PYQ
Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India-Pakistan relations. To what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchanges could help generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples. [ UPSC Civil Services Exam – Mains 2020]
Practice Question
Discuss the evolving strategies of India in countering terrorism with reference to the Reasi terrorist attack of 2023. [150 words]