Date : 10/07/2023
Relevance: GS Paper 3: Security -separatism GS Paper 2: international relations
Keywords: Operation Black Thunder, Operation blue star, freedom of speech, Kartarpur corridor
Context -
In light of the planned rallies by pro-Khalistan separatists in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Australia on July 8, specifically targeting Indian diplomatic missions and diplomats, the Indian government is taking proactive measures to ensure enhanced security and vigilance.
Separatism refers to a political ideology or movement that seeks the separation of a particular group or region from a larger political entity, typically driven by cultural, ethnic, or religious distinctions. In the case of Khalistani separatism, it entailed a movement during the 1970s and 1980s that aimed to establish a separate Sikh state known as Khalistan in the Punjab region of India.
Evolution of Khalistani Separatism:
- During the 1970s, various Sikh separatist organizations emerged, advocating for greater political and economic autonomy for Sikhs. The Indian government responded by suppressing these organizations and detaining their leaders.
- The Anandpur Sahib Resolution, introduced by the Sikh political party Akali Dal, called for increased autonomy for Punjab and its Sikh population.
- The 1980s witnessed escalated violence as security forces retaliated against Sikh militant attacks on government targets. Sikh terrorists also targeted the government and Hindu communities, with support from Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence and led by J. S. Bhindranwale, a prominent religious figure at the time.
- Operation Blue Star was launched by the Indian government to remove insurgents from the Golden Temple complex.
- Following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards, anti-Sikh riots erupted.
- The Punjab Accord of 1985 aimed to bring peace and grant more autonomy to Punjab and its Sikh population, but the Khalistan issue remained unresolved.
- Effective counter-insurgency operations and internal divisions among terrorist factions led to a decline in the insurgency during the 1990s. Sikh Gurdwara administration committees were established for better Gurudwara administration.
- After the 9/11 attacks, international support for Khalistan diminished as Sikh militancy became associated with terrorism. While demand for Khalistan has decreased, certain Sikh organizations continue to advocate for greater autonomy within India.
Indian Government's Approach to Counter Khalistani Separatism:
- The government implemented significant counterinsurgency efforts, such as Operation Black Thunder in 1988, to combat militant groups. Notable police officer K. P. S. Gill played a key role in the 1990s counterinsurgency operations.
- Political measures were undertaken, including the establishment of separate gurdwara management committees to address Sikh concerns.
- Intelligence operations were employed to gather information on militant activities and disrupt their plans.
- Efforts were made to improve relations between the Sikh and Hindu communities, such as the creation of the Punjab Rural Development Board.
- Collaborative initiatives with neighboring states like Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir aimed to prevent the movement of terrorists and weapons across borders.
Pakistan's Involvement in Inciting Instability in Indian Punjab:
- Extremist organizations with ties to Pakistan and support from the ISI still operate in Punjab.
- The ISI continues to provide training and support to militants in preparation for attacks in Punjab, utilizing methods like dropping weapons and explosives through drones.
- Increased drug trafficking activities, backed by Pakistan, ensnare youth in organized crime, with potential links to terrorism.
- Pakistan circulates counterfeit Indian currency in Punjab to finance militancy.
- The ISI exploits social media to radicalize and recruit young Sikhs in India.
- Pakistan funds pro-Khalistan demonstrations and gatherings in Western nations to reignite the Khalistani movement, notably in Canada.
- Pakistan denies its involvement in the Khalistani separatist movement, instead blaming India for alleged human rights abuses in Punjab.
This indicates an ongoing proxy struggle in Punjab. However, steps towards peace, such as the opening of the Kartarpur corridor, have been taken, albeit with suspicions. India should leverage Pakistan's current economic crisis to improve law and order in Punjab, exert pressure on the international community to combat terrorism, and collaborate with civil society to address issues like drug abuse. India must remain prepared in all aspects to ensure national unity and integrity.
India's concern and diplomatic action
- National Security Adviser Ajit Doval discussed the matter with his British counterpart during talks in Delhi, and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) engaged in conversations with partner countries, urging preemptive actions.
- Alarming posters promoting "Kill India" and "Khalistan Freedom" rallies, featuring photographs of India's top diplomats stationed in these nations, have raised concerns in New Delhi.
- While these protests highlight an alarming increase in separatist activities overseas, it is crucial for the countries harboring these groups to be equally concerned, as their own citizens are involved.
- The upcoming rallies serve as a test for respective governments to fulfill their international obligations by ensuring adequate protection for Indian diplomatic interests, investigating and sharing intelligence on violent organizations, and taking measures to prevent criminal acts, rather than using the guise of "freedom of speech."
Reevaluating Diplomatic Strategy:
- While the primary responsibility lies with the four countries experiencing a rise in pro-Khalistan attacks, the Indian government must also reconsider its public diplomacy approach on this issue.
- Publicly admonishing foreign governments, severing diplomatic contact, and engaging in retaliatory measures, such as downgrading security for the British High Commission, may be symbolic but lack diplomatic efficacy.
- Apart from the United States, the MEA has frequently summoned senior diplomats from the mentioned countries to voice concerns regarding attacks, often without distinguishing between violent incidents and mere graffiti.
- Although New Delhi is justified in raising concerns over the safety of Indian citizens and property, it is essential to respect the sovereignty of the host country in matters of law and order and policing.
- Critically, India's vocal protests on behalf of the Indian diaspora and targeted community centers fail to acknowledge that both the victims and perpetrators often have Indian origins.
- Given the escalating protests and the gravity of the threats, the need of the hour is increased cooperation rather than brinkmanship between governments, establishing mechanisms for information sharing, intelligence collaboration, and seeking solutions to address the growing violence perpetrated by such groups.
Conclusion:
It is imperative for India to adapt its diplomatic approach to effectively address the Khalistan issue. The planned pro-Khalistan rallies necessitate urgent action from the concerned governments to protect Indian diplomatic interests, fulfill international obligations, and prevent criminal acts. Simultaneously, New Delhi should reassess its public diplomacy strategies, moving away from symbolic measures toward fostering cooperation with partner nations. Recognizing that law and order matters fall under the jurisdiction of the host country, India should engage in constructive dialogue, information sharing, and intelligence collaboration to tackle the rising violence perpetrated by pro-Khalistan groups. By doing so, a collective effort can be made to safeguard the interests of all parties involved and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Probable Questions for Mains Exam-
- Discuss the evolution of the Khalistani separatist movement in India, highlighting the key events and factors contributing to its rise. Analyze the Indian government's approach to countering Khalistani separatism and assess its effectiveness. (10 marks, 150 words)
- Examine the role of Pakistan in inciting instability in the Indian Punjab through its support of extremist organizations and its involvement in promoting the Khalistani separatist movement. Evaluate the measures taken by India to address Pakistan's interference and discuss the potential strategies to mitigate this proxy struggle. (15 marks,250 Words)
Source : The Hindu
