Internal Security Handout by Mr.

Satveer Singh
What is Terrorism?
Any person who commits an offense, with the purpose of the conduct is to intimidate a
population or to compel a government or an international organization to do or
abstain from doing any act, which causes:
1. Death or serious bodily injury to any person; or
2. Severe damage to public or private property, including a place of public use, a State
or government facility, a public transportation system, an infrastructure facility or
the environment; or
3. Damage to property, places, facilities, or systems resulting in or likely to result in
a major economic loss.
Terrorism in India, can be broadly categorised in three distinct parts:
1. Cross border terrorism in J&K.

2. Terrorism in the hinterland.

3. Extreme violence and terrorism as an integral part of the ongoing insurgencies.
Quite often, incidents relating to a particular religious or ethnic group act as a catalyst.
They also act as an initiator to indoctrinate/ radicalise youth (and not necessarily only
the poor and marginalised) to indulge in extreme forms of violence and terrorism.
India also remains highly vulnerable to terrorism by foreign terrorists, due to
porous borders with all its neighbours and a long coast line. Resultantly, the
terrorists and the insurgents continue to receive material support and funds from
many sources.

Reasons for spread of terrorism in India

 Religious and Communal Tensions: India's diverse religious and communal
landscape has at times led to conflicts and acts of terrorism, with tensions between
different religious and ethnic groups contributing to the issue.
o For ex: 2002 Gujarat riots and the 1993 Bombay bombings.
 Ethnic and Separatist Movements: Several regions in India have witnessed
ethnic or separatist movements seeking autonomy or independence, often
resorting to terrorism to advance their objectives
o For ex: The conflict in Jammu and Kashmir, driven by demands for
autonomy and independence, has given rise to various militant groups,
including Hizbul Mujahideen and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
 Radicalization and Recruitment: The radicalization of individuals, often via the
internet and social media, has played a role in the spread of terrorism in India.
Some individuals have been influenced to join international terrorist
organizations.

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 o For ex: Cases of radicalization and recruitment through social media and
online platforms have been reported, with individuals from India joining
international terrorist organizations like ISIS.
 Geopolitical Factors: India's geopolitical relations with neighbouring countries,
such as Pakistan and China, have had security implications and have been
exploited by terrorist organizations for their agendas
 Proximity to Conflict Zones: India shares borders with countries that have
experienced conflict, such as Pakistan and Afghanistan. This geographical
proximity can lead to the infiltration of militant groups and the spread of terrorist
activities.
Insurgency in Kashmir
After its humiliating defeat in 1971 war, Pakistan adopted the strategy of proxy war with
India by promoting insurgency in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir. Till 1987, the insurgency
in Kashmir was low intensity warfare. In 1987 assembly elections, an eleven-party
oppositional alliance won only four seats despite its popular support, and a dispute
started about rigging in the elections. This dispute had set the stage for birth of
insurgency in the Kashmir valley in 1989. Within no time, it was escalated and the armed
insurgent groups demanded sovereignty and freedom the Indian state.

Key Players in Kashmir Insurgency

In the beginning, two main groups of the armed insurgents were the Jammu and Kashmir
Liberation Front (JKLF) and the Hizbul-Mujahideen.

Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF)

The JKLF (created in 1964) demanded for the unification of the Indian and Pakistani sides
of Kashmir and independence for all of Kashmir. The JKLF was one of the main insurgent
groups in Kashmir in 1990s. Despite its initial violence against Kashmiri Hindus, the JKLF
claimed its movement as a secular. Later in 1995, the JKLF led by Yasin Malik renounced
the use of violence and called for peaceful methods to resolve the issues. It also called for
return of Kashmir Hindu pundits to the valley.

Hizb-ul-Mujahideen
After the end of Soviet-Afghan war in 1988, the victorious Afghan Mujahideen were
infiltrated into Kashmir with the support of Pakistan. They demanded for an Islamic state
and unification with Pakistan. Later to strengthen their movement and to unify several
Islamic insurgent groups, an apex organization of more than thirty militant-nationalist
groups, the Kul-Jammat-e-Hurriyat-e-Kashmir (All Kashmir Freedom Front), was formed
in 1993. But the government counter-insurgency during initial years had taken heavy toll
on insurgent’s morale and capacity.

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Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)
The fidayeen attacks were carried out the LeT, an organisation of religious radicals
founded and headquartered in Pakistan and led by Pakistanis. The LeT entered India
during 1990s as part of an ISI strategy. The Lashkar-e-Taiba recruited local Kashmiris as
a fidayeen cadre. But the large majority of those who executed these attacks were
Pakistanis.

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)
It was launched in 1999 by Maulana Masood Azhar, a former militant commander
released by India from prison for the 1999 hijacking of an airliner. JeM’s objective was to
unite Kashmir with Pakistan. JeM was known to its involvement in several suicide attacks
in J&K including the one on J&K Legislative Assembly in October 2001, the attack on
Indian Parliament in December 2001 besides a few other terrorist attacks inside India
during 2005-06. Despite the fact that this organisation was believed to have been
implicated in two attacks on President Musharraf and was banned in Pakistan in 2002, it
continues to operate fairly openly in parts of Pakistan. The other prominent terrorist
organisations that have been operating in the valley are Lashker-e-Taiba, Al-Badr,
Harkat-ul-Ansar, Harkat-ul-Jehad-e-Islami (HuJi).

Methods deployed for Proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir:

 Propaganda and various malicious campaigns to brainwash the people of the
valley and create trust deficit towards India.
 Infiltration of terrorists from across the border and affect the ongoing
developmental works in the valley.
 Use of information technology in training and recruitment of terrorists.
 Internationalize the issue of Kashmir at forums like the UN and create an image of
India as biased towards a particular religion.
 Use of locals for intelligence sharing. The locals have become the eyes and ears of
terrorist groups. They provide sensitive information about military installations;
base stations and they even provide shelter to these groups.
 As Pakistan’s role in international forums is diminishing, India has strengthened
its relations with foreign countries like USA, France, Israel, Germany, Japan,
Australia and even Saudi Arabia and UAE. To avoid collective backlash from these
countries, Pakistan has diverted its terrorist attacks on Indian military bases. This
can be seen from attacks in Pathankot, Uri or attack on military convoys. As the
security preparedness of India is strengthened during the last few years, attacks
on military bases to weaken the security system has become a new tactic of
Pakistan to bleed India with thousand cuts.

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Government Approach towards Jammu and Kashmir Militancy
1. Military Response against Violence and Infiltration

o Employing military forces to combat violence and prevent infiltration

across border areas and coordinating operations of the Army, police, and
paramilitary forces through a Unified Headquarters.
o Utilizing paramilitary forces such as the Border Security Force, Central
Reserve Police Force, and Special Forces as well as establishing the
Rashtriya Rifles (RR) as a specialized force to counter insurgency.
o Focusing on preventing the infiltration of insurgents from launch pads and
training camps in Pakistan by fortifying the Line of Control (LOC) and the
International Border.
2. Political Dialogue and Negotiations

o Engaging in political dialogue and negotiations with groups that have

renounced violence.
o Pursuing a dual strategy of holding dialogues with moderate groups since
1997, with increased momentum after the 9/11 attacks.
o Working towards a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue through
constructive discussions.
3. Economic and Social Development

o Implementing measures for economic and social development to enhance

the living conditions and employment opportunities of the local
population.
o Initiating reconstruction plans and developmental projects, with
significant financial outlays, focusing on infrastructure, power, transport,
renewable energy, urban development, railways, roadways, health,
tourism, welfare of displaced people, and flood relief.
4. Development of Democratic Practices

o Upholding democratic practices despite the region's turmoil and instability

and regularly conducting assembly and parliament elections in the state of
Jammu & Kashmir.
o Notable increase in voter participation during each election, reflecting the
people's desire for peace and harmony.

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 5. Diplomatic Initiatives
o Undertaking diplomatic initiatives to foster peace and stability in the
region.
o Engaging in confidence-building measures with Pakistan and international
counter-terrorism cooperation with friendly countries.
o Strengthening India's position internationally by highlighting Pakistan-
based militant group attacks on the J&K legislative Assembly and Indian
Parliament in 2002.
o Actively pursuing dialogue with Pakistan on various issues, including the
Kashmir dispute.
o Engaging in talks with moderate groups within Kashmir to seek a peaceful
resolution to the issue.

Organised Crime and Terrorism (Covered in detail in class)

What are the Challenges in Countering Terrorism?
 Terror Funding: Poor understanding of ML/TF (Money Laundering /Terror
Funding) threats and risks.
o Inability to adequately identify, assess and mitigate ML/FT risks.
 Old Methods of data Collection Traditional risk assessment tools do not allow
data to be analysed at a large scale, limiting the potential for correlations and
analysis to generate a more fine-grained picture of the risks.
 Other Factors:
o Lack of coordination between international organisations and the huge
burden of legislations created.
o Weaknesses in national regulatory schemes.
o Informal transfer and movements of assets across national boundaries
o High costs of implementing the risk approach for private non-state actors
(financial and non-financial institutions).
 Narrow Global War on Terrorism (GWOT): The first challenge is that the
“Global War on Terrorism” (GWOT), as it was conceived by a post 9/11 United
States is over with the last chapter written last year, as the United States
negotiated with the Taliban, and then withdrew from Afghanistan.
 USA and China Escorting the Pakistan: Even after GWOT was launched,
Pakistan’s role as the U.S.’s ally, and China’s “iron friend” ensured that the UNSC
designations of those who threatened India the most, including Masood Azhar and
Hafiz Saeed, never mentioned their role in attacks in India.

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  FATF is becoming toothless: The maximum India received in terms of global
cooperation was actually from economic strictures that the Financial Action Task
Force (FATF)’s grey list placed on Pakistan — Pakistan was cleared from this in
October indicating that the global appetite to punish Pakistan for terrorism has
petered out.
 Realpolitik over Global problem: In addition, the weak international reaction to
the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul, and its persecution of women and minorities in
the country, demonstrate rising fatigue levels in dealing with “another country’s
problems”.
Ineffective UNSC resolutions: The hard reality for India is that the future of
counterterrorism cooperation is going to be less cooperative, and counterterror regimes
such as the UNSC Resolutions 1267, 1373, etc. rendered outdated and toothless
Methods to Curb Terrorism
 Strengthening Intelligence Agencies: Enhance the capabilities of intelligence
agencies like the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the Intelligence Bureau
(IB) to gather actionable intelligence on terrorist activities. Continuously train and
equip law enforcement agencies and security personnel to deal with evolving
terrorist threats and technologies.
o For ex: The Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) and the Joint Intelligence
Committee (JIC) play key roles.
 Legislative Measures: Enforce and strengthen existing anti-terrorism laws, such
as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Also review and update these
laws as needed.

 Cybersecurity: Establish specialized cybercrime units to monitor online activities

and track potential threats. Monitor social media and online platforms for signs of
radicalization and recruitment.
o For ex: Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) prevents misuse of
cyberspace for furthering the cause of extremist and terrorist groups
 Financial Measures: Strengthen financial intelligence units to track and disrupt
the financing of terrorist organizations. Freeze the assets of individuals and
entities linked to terrorism.
o For ex: Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) plays a crucial role in
identifying and preventing the flow of funds to terrorist organizations.
 Border Security and Coastal Defence: Enhance coastal security to prevent
infiltration and smuggling of arms and explosives. Improve technology and
infrastructure along borders to prevent unauthorized entry.

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Therefore, curbing the menace of terrorism is an urgent and complex challenge that
demands a multi-faceted approach. While security measures are crucial, addressing the
root causes of terrorism, fostering international cooperation, and promoting social and
economic development in regions prone to extremism are equally essential. It is through
a combination of proactive strategies, intelligence-sharing, diplomacy, and global
solidarity that we can hope to create a safer world where the scourge of terrorism is
diminished, allowing peace, tolerance, and prosperity to prevail.
What is the Khalistan movement?

The Khalistan movement is a fight for a separate, sovereign Sikh state in present day
Punjab (both India and Pakistan). The movement was crushed in India
following Operation Blue Star (1984) and Operation Black Thunder (1986 and
1988).Operation Blue Star began on June 1, 1984 to flush out militants from the Golden
Temple and neutralise [Link], it continues to evoke sympathy and
support among sections of the Sikh population, especially in the Sikh diaspora in
countries such as Canada, the UK, and Australia.
 Khalistan and Canada

o As per the 2021 Canadian census, Sikhs account for 2.1 per cent of Canada’s
population, and are the country’s fastest growing religious group.
 After India, Canada is home to the largest population of Sikhs in the
world.
o In 2002, Toronto-based Punjabi-language weekly Sanjh Savera greeted
Indira’s death anniversary with a cover illustration of her murder.
 The magazine received government advertisements, and is now a
prominent daily in Canada.
o Last year in Brampton - home to Canada’s largest Sikh population - a pro-
Khalistan organisation known as Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) held a so-
called referendum on Khalistan.

When did the movement start and why?

 Origin lies in India’s independence and subsequent Partition along religious lines
o The Punjab province, which was divided between India and Pakistan, saw
some of the worst communal violence and generated millions of refugees.
o Lahore, the capital of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s great Sikh Empire, went to
Pakistan, as did holy Sikh sites including Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.
o While most Sikhs found themselves in India, they were a small minority in
the country, making up around 2 per cent of the population.

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  Struggle for greater autonomy & States Reorganisation Commission
o The political struggle for greater autonomy began around the time of
Independence, with the Punjabi Suba Movement for the creation of a
Punjabi-speaking state.
o The States Reorganisation Commission, in its 1955 report, rejected this
demand, but in 1966, after years of protest, the state of Punjab was
reorganised to reflect the Punjabi Suba demand.
o The erstwhile Punjab state was trifurcated into the Hindi-speaking, Hindu-
majority states of Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, and the Punjabi-
speaking, Sikh-majority Punjab.
 Anandpur Sahib Resolution
o In 1973, leaders of the Akali Dal met at the sacred town of Anandpur Sahib,
the birthplace of the Khalsa.
o They released a list of demands that would guide the political path of the
Akali Dal.
o Among other things, the Anandpur Sahib Resolution demanded autonomy
for the state of Punjab, identified regions that would be part of a separate
state, and sought the right to frame its own internal constitution.
o The Akali Dal was trying to cash in on the growing demand for an
autonomous state which had emerged alongside the Punjabi Suba
movement.
 This demand had gone global by 1971 — when an advertisement
appeared on The New York Times proclaiming the birth of
Khalistan.
 Rise of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale
o Many in Punjab sought to go beyond just a demand for greater autonomy.
One such man was Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.
o Bhindranwale was a charismatic preacher who soon positioned himself as
the authentic voice of the Sikhs.
o He found a captive audience in the state’s youth, especially those in the
lower rungs of the social ladder, and massed a massive following.
o By 1982, he took up residence inside the Golden Temple, directing
demonstrations and clashes with the police.
o The movement was geared towards the demands first articulated in the
Anandpur Sahib Resolution.

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 o However, amidst growing religious polarisation, sectarian violence, and
Bhindranwale’s own harsh rhetoric against Hindus, the then government
declared the movement tantamount to secession.

Geopolitical implications of the Khalistan issue

The Khalistan issue has significant geopolitical implications, primarily for India and its
relations with other nations. It has the potential to affect diplomatic, security, and
economic relations, and it remains a complex and sensitive matter for India’s domestic
and foreign policy.
 India’s Territorial Integrity: The Khalistan issue challenges India’s territorial
integrity and sovereignty. It is a secessionist movement that seeks to carve out a
separate state from Indian territory. The Indian government considers this a
threat to its unity and national integrity.
 Relations with Pakistan: Historically, Pakistan has been accused of supporting
and sheltering Sikh militants advocating for Khalistan. This has led to tensions and
conflicts in India-Pakistan relations. The Khalistan issue has the potential to strain
these relations further.
 India-Canada relations: The issue has been a bone of contention in the bilateral
ties. India has been upset about frequent demonstrations and vandalism by Sikh
separatists and their supporters at Indian diplomatic missions in Canada. As of
recently, the issue has put a hold on the trade treaty between the countries.
 International Diplomacy: India has actively lobbied against any support for the
Khalistan movement from foreign governments. The issue can impact India’s
diplomatic relations with countries that may be seen as supporting the movement
or providing a platform for Khalistani separatists.
 Security Concerns: The Khalistan movement has led to security concerns within
India, with periodic outbreaks of violence and terrorism. Addressing these
concerns can strain India’s resources and attention.
 Role of Diaspora: The Sikh diaspora, particularly in countries like Canada, the
United Kingdom, and the United States, has played a role in advocating for
Khalistan. This can influence the relationships between India and these countries.
 Counterterrorism Cooperation: India’s concerns about terrorism related to the
Khalistan issue may lead to increased cooperation with other nations in
counterterrorism efforts.
 Human Rights Concerns: The handling of the Khalistan issue by Indian
authorities has raised human rights concerns. International human rights
organizations may engage with the issue, potentially affecting India’s
international image.

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  Domestic Politics: In India, the Khalistan issue has domestic political
implications. It can be used as a political tool by different parties to gain support
or criticize the government’s handling of the situation.
 Economic Ties: The geopolitical implications of the Khalistan issue can extend to
economic ties. Trade and economic relations between India and other nations can
be influenced by the political stance they take regarding the Khalistan movement
Way Forward:
The secessionist movements such as the Khalistan movement should be tackled smoothly
without hurting the sentiments of Sikhs. It is need of the hour that the Indian government
must take steps and measures to prevent the movement from gathering attraction by
arresting the sympathizers and supporters of Khalistan as done in the recent Punjab case
(arrested Khalistani terrorist).

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