Q. Terrorism is a global scourge. How has it manifested in India? Elaborate with contemporary examples. What are the counter measures adopted by the State? Explain.
Introduction:
Terrorism, as a tool of violence for political/ideological goals, has manifested in India in diverse forms—cross-border, ideological, and lone-wolf—posing persistent internal security challenges.
Manifestations of Terrorism in India
1. Cross-Border Terrorism
- State-sponsored infiltration, especially in J&K
- Aimed at destabilisation & internationalisation of Kashmir issue
- Example: Pulwama attack
2. Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)
- Maoist insurgency in “Red Corridor”
- Target: State apparatus, infrastructure
- Example: Dantewada/Sukma attacks on security forces
3. Ethno-Nationalist Insurgencies
- Northeast insurgent groups (ULFA, NSCN factions)
- Demands: autonomy, identity assertion
4. Religious/Ideological Radicalisation
- Modules inspired by global jihadist groups
- Lone-wolf attacks, online radicalisation
5. Urban Terrorism
- Targeting metros, economic hubs
- Example: Mumbai attacks
6. Emerging Forms
- Cyber-terrorism, drone-based smuggling (Punjab border)
- Use of encrypted communication, dark web
Contemporary Trends
- Decline in large-scale attacks in J&K but persistence of hybrid militants
- LWE shrinking geographically but still potent in pockets
- Increased use of technology (drones, crypto funding)
Counter-Measures Adopted by the State
1. Legal Framework
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) strengthened
- NIA Act → centralised investigation
2. Institutional Mechanisms
- National Investigation Agency (NIA)
- Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) for intelligence sharing
3. Intelligence & Surveillance
- NATGRID, CCTNS databases
- Tech-based monitoring (AI, data analytics)
4. Security Operations
- Surgical strikes (2016), Balakot airstrike (2019)
- Area domination, counter-insurgency operations
5. Border Management
- Smart fencing (CIBMS), surveillance drones
- Strengthening coastal security post-26/11
6. Counter-Radicalisation
- De-radicalisation programs
- Community engagement, online monitoring
7. Developmental Approach
- Aspirational Districts Programme in LWE areas
- Infrastructure, employment generation
8. International Cooperation
- FATF pressure on terror financing
- Bilateral intelligence sharing
Challenges
- Cross-border support persists
- Misuse concerns of stringent laws (civil liberties debate)
- Tech-enabled terrorism evolving faster than regulation
Way Forward
- Balance security + civil liberties
- Strengthen local policing & intelligence
- Address root causes: alienation, underdevelopment
- Global cooperation against terror financing
Conclusion:
India’s multi-pronged strategy combining security, legal, developmental, and diplomatic tools is crucial to effectively combat the evolving and multidimensional threat of terrorism.