GS Paper 3
Syllabus: Linkages between Development and Spread of Extremism
Source: TH
Context: The extremist threat seems to be resurfacing in Punjab, three decades after sectarian conflict devastated the region.
Signs of extremism resurfacing in Punjab:
- Pro-Khalistan protests in areas of the globe where a sizable concentration of the Sikh diaspora exists (Australia, Canada, the UK and the US).
- The emergence of self-styled Sikh extremist preachers (like Amritpal Singh).
| The real cause for concern | |
| Lessons from the Past | The current security dispensation does not appear to have learnt the right lessons from past mistakes.
For example, proper handling of the Bhindranwale phenomenon well before 1984, could have avoided violence → ‘Operation Blue Star’ → the damage caused to Akal Takht.
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| Low Awareness | All serious threats develop from misreading sentiments that remain unheeded by those in authority.
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| Intelligence analysis has low priority.
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Intelligence analysis involves gathering information → thoroughly evaluated by professionals → projected to decision-makers. |
| India has clearly failed in its diplomatic efforts:
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To convince the world of the true nature of the radicalist Khalistan threat. |
What needs to be done?
- Stop treating the issue as a foreign conspiracy (of Pakistan’s ISI, drug mafias, etc).
- Facing up to the reality that this may be more than a mere emotional outburst of the Sikh extremist fringe.
- Prioritising intelligence analysis:
- The central and State intelligence agencies cannot miss signs of
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- Growing insecurity among sections of Sikh youth
- Discontent prevailing among the Sikh peasantry over the decline in their economic conditions, and
- The threat posed to the Sikh religion by conversions to other religions, such as Christianity.
- Sharing intelligence with friendly intelligence agencies, especially in countries where the Sikh diaspora is present in strength.
Conclusion:
India should not yield to the temptation of resorting to strong-arm methods. It needs to ensure a greater sense of unity within the country while upholding due respect for individual dignity and human progress.
Insta Links:
A brief history of the Khalistan movement
Mains Links:
What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in the Eastern part of India? What strategy should the Government of India, civil administration and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas? (UPSC 2020)
