What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. (250 words) (UPSC GS 3 2023/15 marks)
India faces a range of internal security challenges. Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies play a critical role in gathering intelligence, conducting investigations, and countering these threats, often working in coordination with state police and international partners.
Introduction:
India, with its diverse population and geopolitical location, faces a range of internal security challenges. These challenges are complex and multifaceted, demanding a robust response from central intelligence and investigative agencies.
Internal Security Challenges in India:
1. Terrorism:
- Threat from terrorist organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Naxalite groups.
- Example: The 2008 Mumbai attacks orchestrated by LeT.
2. Naxalism (Left-Wing Extremism):
- Maoist insurgency in several states, posing a significant threat to internal security.
- Example: The 2010 Dantewada attack in Chhattisgarh.
3. Insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir:
- Ongoing conflict in the region, involving militant groups demanding independence or autonomy.
- Example: The 2019 Pulwama attack by JeM.
4. Insurgency in Northeast India:
- Various insurgent groups seek greater autonomy or independence in the northeastern states.
- Example: United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) has been involved in insurgent activities.
5. Communal Tensions:
- Religious and ethnic tensions leading to communal violence and riots.
- Example: The 2002 Gujarat riots.
6. Cyber Threats:
- Increasing cyberattacks targeting government institutions, critical infrastructure, and private organizations.
- Example: The 2020 cyberattack on the Indian power grid.
7. Radicalization and Extremism:
- Growing radicalization of youth, both online and offline, leading to domestic extremism.
- Example: The 2006 Malegaon bombings carried out by a Hindu extremist group.
8. Border Disputes and Infiltration:
- Security challenges related to border disputes with neighboring countries like China and Pakistan.
- Example: The 2017 Doklam standoff with China.
Role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies:
1. Intelligence Bureau (IB):
- Collects and analyzes intelligence related to internal security threats.
- Coordinates with state police and other agencies.
- Example: IB played a crucial role in uncovering the 2001 Parliament attack plot.
2. Research and Analysis Wing (RAW):
- Focuses on external intelligence but often collaborates with IB for counter-terrorism efforts.
- Gathers intelligence on foreign-sponsored terrorism.
- Example: RAW's involvement in tracking and neutralizing threats from across the border.
3. National Investigation Agency (NIA):
- Specialized agency for investigating and prosecuting terrorism-related cases.
- Empowered to handle cases with national and international implications.
- Example: NIA's investigation into the Pathankot airbase attack.
4. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI):
- Handles high-profile cases, including corruption, economic offenses, and cases with national importance.
- Assists in investigations related to internal security when required.
- Example: CBI's role in the investigation of the 1993 Bombay bombings.
5. State Police and Special Forces:
- State police departments play a crucial role in maintaining law and order.
- Special forces like the National Security Guard (NSG) are deployed in counter-terrorism operations.
- Example: NSG's involvement in the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
6. National Cyber Security Agency:
- Addresses cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
- Collaborates with other agencies to protect critical digital infrastructure.
- Example: Assisting in the response to the 2020 power grid cyberattack.
7. Cooperation with International Agencies:
- Collaborates with international intelligence agencies like the CIA and MI6 to gather information on global threats.
- Shares intelligence related to cross-border terrorism.
- Example: Sharing intelligence on terrorist financing with international partners.
Conclusion
India faces a range of internal security challenges. Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies play a critical role in gathering intelligence, conducting investigations, and countering these threats, often working in coordination with state police and international partners.