| PYQ Relevance: Q) Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have previously focused on ‘internal security’ as well as ‘external impacts on the political security’ of India (in 2021).
India ranked 4th out of 159 countries on the Global Terrorism Index, indicating a high level of internal conflict and the presence of various extremist groups.
Today’s editorial explores the complex transition of armed groups into formal political entities within democratic frameworks. This content can be used to put the ‘challenges and implications of transformations for broader political security and democratic landscape’.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Elections in Sri Lanka highlight a less noticeable trend, where left-wing revolutionary groups, once dedicated to armed struggle, are shifting toward democratic engagement.
- Some of the most prominent insurgencies, including Nepal’s Maoists, El Salvador’s Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN), and certain Marxist-Leninist groups within India, have pursued a new path by entering parliamentary politics.
- This shift reflects a pragmatic blend of ideological adaptation and responsiveness to changing political realities.
| What are the challenges faced in India due to such groups? • Security Threats: The Naxalite groups, which include the CPI-Maoist, have engaged in guerrilla warfare against state forces, leading to thousands of deaths among civilians and security personnel (esp in the “red corridor” across central and eastern India). These groups often establish control over remote areas, providing governance and social services while undermining state authority. • Social and Economic Factors: The insurgency is fueled by deep-rooted issues such as poverty, land disputes, and social marginalization of tribal communities and Dalits. The government’s inability to address, this eventually allows the Naxalites to gain support from disenfranchised populations. • Political Dynamics: The rise of right-wing politics in India has complicated the landscape for leftist movements. The ruling party’s policies may exacerbate existing tensions and hinder dialogue with Marxist-Leninist groups, making it difficult for the government to pursue peaceful resolutions. The government has launched several military operations, such as Operation Green Hunt, but these operations have often led to retaliatory violence and further entrenching the conflict rather than resolving it. |
What factors contribute to the successful transition of armed groups into parliamentary politics?
- Internal Cohesion and Leadership: A unified leadership and strong internal cohesion within the armed group are essential for navigating the transition. Leaders who are committed to the political process and can manage internal dissent play a critical role in guiding their groups through the transformation.
- Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR): The act of disarming can have significant psychological benefits, symbolizing a commitment to peace and civilian life, which is crucial for gaining public trust and acceptance.
- Successful transitions often involve effective DDR initiatives that facilitate the disarmament of combatants, their demobilization from armed groups, and their reintegration into civilian life.
- Favorable Peace Agreements: Agreements that include provisions for political participation, power-sharing arrangements, and recognition of the armed group’s role can create pathways for their transformation into political parties.
- For example, Nepal’s peace process allowed the Maoists to enter mainstream politics after disarming and participating in elections.
- Timing and Transitional Justice: Implementing transitional justice measures at right time helps address grievances and fosters reconciliation, which is vital for sustaining peace and encouraging political participation.
How do societal and political perceptions affect the integration of former insurgents into politics?
- Public Trust and Legitimacy: If society views them as legitimate political actors, it can facilitate their integration. Conversely, if they are seen as threats or remnants of violence, public resistance can hinder their political participation.
- For Example, in El Salvador, the FMLN’s transition from a guerrilla group to a political party was initially successful due to a peace agreement that garnered public support.
- Historical Grievances: Societal attitudes towards past injustices can also affect integration. If former insurgents are perceived as having fought against oppression, they may gain sympathy and support. However, unresolved grievances can lead to resentment and opposition.
- In Iraq, the Sunni population’s disenfranchisement after the fall of Saddam Hussein contributed to ongoing insurgency, as many felt excluded from the new political order.
- Narratives of Victimhood: Insurgent groups often cultivate narratives of victimhood to justify their actions and garner support. If these narratives resonate with societal sentiments, they can facilitate acceptance into political processes.
- However, if society perceives these narratives as manipulative or self-serving, it may lead to a backlash against former insurgents.
- State Response and Governance: If the government adopts an inclusive approach that encourages participation rather than exclusion or repression, it enhances the chances of successful integration. In contrast, heavy-handed state responses can alienate former combatants and push them back towards militancy.
| CASE STUDIES: • Nepal: The Maoist party transitioned into a legitimate political entity after a decade-long civil war, aided by a comprehensive peace agreement that included provisions for their participation in governance. • Colombia: The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) signed a peace deal in 2016 that allowed them to transition into a political party. While initially successful, their integration has faced challenges due to ongoing violence and societal skepticism towards their motives. • South Sudan: Former SPLA members have struggled with integration into formal politics due to ongoing conflict and societal divisions exacerbated by ethnic tensions. |
Conclusion: The willingness of the government to engage with former insurgents, and the role of external actors—play a crucial role in shaping the environment for successful political participation. For example, Colombia’s FARC’s transition into a political party post-peace agreement illustrates how supportive frameworks can aid integration, while ongoing societal skepticism presents challenges.
