Examine how external state and non-state actors have influenced some segments of the Indian populace to become radicalized and what steps need to be taken to prevent this threat.
India is sandwiched between the two largest drug production networks of the world namely the Golden Triangle (Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar) and the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan-Pakistan- Iran), and this makes India vulnerable to drug trafficking. However, the factors responsible for the growing menacRead more
India is sandwiched between the two largest drug production networks of the world namely the Golden Triangle (Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar) and the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan-Pakistan- Iran), and this makes India vulnerable to drug trafficking. However, the factors responsible for the growing menace of drug trafficking in the country go beyond its mere proximity to the largest drug production networks.
These factors include the following:
- Availability of maritime routes: With a long coastline and availability of numerous ports, India is sensitive to drug trafficking through maritime routes. For example, according to the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), drug trafficking through sea routes in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal is estimated to be around 70% of the total illegal drugs smuggled into India.
- Increased demand for drugs: From traditional plant-based drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, and heroin to synthetic drugs such as tramadol, demand for narcotic substances in India has increased manifold in recent years.
- Social factors: Various factors like the disintegration of the old joint family system, absence of parental love and care in modern families where both parents are working, a decline of old religious and moral values, etc. have led to a rise in the number of drug addicts and thus, drug trafficking.
- The increased role of the Internet: Challenges such as emergence of illegal Internet pharmacies, the use of the dark net to place orders and make payments through trading platforms using cryptocurrencies, etc. have increased the procurement of drugs and made distribution easy.
- Logistical issues: There are issues of manpower, infrastructure challenges, and budgetary constraints to intercepting drugs at points of India’s entry for the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), which is the lead agency in this regard.
- Inadequate diplomatic leverage: India’s current diplomatic leverage and security cooperation are minimal both at the point of origin, i.e., Afghanistan, and the principal route, i.e., Pakistan, which makes it difficult to gather intelligence about smuggling.
Various measures taken by the government to tackle drug trafficking in India include:
- Institutional measures:
- The Anti-Narcotics Task Force, a task force on the dark web, cryptocurrencies, etc. has been constituted to act quickly to curb drugs and the usage of the dark net in drug procurement. Amongst border guarding agencies, the Border Security Force (BSF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Coast Guard have been empowered to take action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
- Technological measures
- A National Narcotics Coordination Portal (NCORD) has been created through which all agencies across the country will not only be able to get information but will also be able to exchange the best practices.
- Administrative measures:
- The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has formulated and is implementing a National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) for 2018-2025, which aims at the reduction of adverse consequences of drug abuse through a multi-pronged strategy involving education, de-addiction and rehabilitation of affected individuals and their families.
- De-addiction campaigns are being run, there is strict surveillance and enforcement at import and export points of drugs, and training programs are being conducted for various law enforcement officials to combat the drug menace.
- Global measures: The government of India has entered into a separate Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on narcotics with different countries for the timely exchange of intelligence information to take place. For example, the MoU between India and Nepal on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
Drugs have an adverse effect on the security of the individual, society, economy, and country, which is why it is necessary to uproot their use with firmness. No healthy, prosperous, capable, and safe nation can achieve its goals without adopting a zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking.
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Role of External State and Non-State Actors in Radicalization and Measures to Counter the Threat Introduction Radicalization of certain sections of the Indian population has been influenced by both external state and non-state actors. These actors exploit various means to incite extremism and unrestRead more
Role of External State and Non-State Actors in Radicalization and Measures to Counter the Threat
Introduction
Radicalization of certain sections of the Indian population has been influenced by both external state and non-state actors. These actors exploit various means to incite extremism and unrest. This evaluation explores the role of these actors in radicalization and suggests measures to counteract this threat effectively.
1. Role of External State Actors
a. Support for Militant Groups
Funding and Training: External state actors, notably Pakistan, have been involved in supporting militant groups that target India. The Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), responsible for high-profile attacks like the Pulwama attack in February 2019, is reportedly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Such support includes funding, training, and logistical assistance.
State Sponsorship of Terrorism: State actors like Pakistan have been accused of providing sanctuary and support to groups involved in terrorism against India. This external backing not only facilitates the operational capabilities of these groups but also aids in the radicalization process by providing ideological and material resources.
b. Diplomatic and Political Support
International Forums: States with interests opposing Indian policies sometimes use international forums to justify or minimize the impact of radicalization activities. For example, attempts to internationalize the Kashmir issue have seen external actors like Pakistan gain diplomatic support, which indirectly aids the radicalization efforts within Kashmir and other regions.
2. Role of Non-State Actors
a. Terrorist Organizations
Recruitment and Radicalization: Non-state actors, particularly terrorist organizations like ISIS, use online platforms and social media to recruit and radicalize individuals in India. ISIS’s propaganda efforts have targeted disaffected youth in various Indian states, leading to cases like the Kerala Youth joining ISIS.
Local Affiliates: Groups such as the Indian Mujahideen and SIMI (Students Islamic Movement of India) have local networks that engage in radicalizing young individuals, often exploiting local grievances and socio-economic issues.
b. Extremist Groups and Ideologies
Exploitation of Social Media: Non-state actors use social media to spread extremist ideologies and recruit followers. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Telegram are used to disseminate radical content and organize activities. For instance, the spread of communal and radical content has been noted in recent Delhi riots of 2020, where extremist elements utilized social media to incite violence.
Community and Sectarian Divisions: Non-state actors exploit existing communal and sectarian divisions to radicalize individuals. The Bajrang Dal and similar groups have been involved in promoting radicalized views under the guise of religious and cultural revivalism, influencing some sections of the population towards radical ideologies.
3. Measures Required to Counter the Threat
a. Strengthening Internal Security and Intelligence
Enhanced Surveillance and Monitoring: Improved surveillance and monitoring of online activities can help detect and prevent radicalization. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Intelligence Bureau (IB) play crucial roles in tracking and intercepting radical activities.
Intelligence Sharing: Greater coordination and intelligence sharing among central and state agencies are essential to counteract both external and internal radicalization threats. The Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) serves as a platform for such coordination.
b. Counter-Radicalization Programs
Community Engagement: Engaging with communities to address grievances and counter extremist ideologies is critical. Initiatives like the Sadhbhavna Mission aim to promote communal harmony and integrate marginalized communities into mainstream society.
Educational and Vocational Training: Providing education and vocational training can help address the socio-economic factors contributing to radicalization. Programs aimed at youth empowerment and skill development can mitigate the appeal of extremist ideologies.
c. Legislative and Policy Measures
Strict Enforcement of Laws: Enforcing laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to tackle terrorism financing and radicalization activities is crucial. These laws help in disrupting the financial and operational networks of extremist groups.
Counter-Terrorism Strategies: Implementing comprehensive counter-terrorism strategies, including preventive measures and quick-response mechanisms, is vital. The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), when fully operational, will enhance India’s capability to tackle terrorism and radicalization effectively.
d. International Cooperation
Global Counter-Terrorism Initiatives: Strengthening international cooperation to counter-terrorism and radicalization is essential. Collaboration with countries like the US, EU, and regional partners in counter-terrorism efforts helps in addressing transnational threats.
Engagement with Tech Companies: Working with tech companies to counteract the use of social media for spreading extremist content is necessary. Initiatives like the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT) aim to combat online radicalization.
Conclusion
External state and non-state actors significantly contribute to the radicalization of certain sections of the Indian population through various methods, including support for militant groups, online propaganda, and exploitation of social divisions. Addressing this threat requires a multifaceted approach, including strengthening internal security, enhancing community engagement, implementing robust legislative measures, and fostering international cooperation. A comprehensive strategy will be crucial in mitigating the impact of radicalization and ensuring national security.
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