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Subject: Internal Security

  • Grey Zone Warfare: Navigating the Space between Peace and Conflict

    Grey Zone

    In the news

    • In contemporary international relations, the concept of grey zone warfare has gained prominence, reflecting a complex space between overt conflict and peace.
    • This nuanced form of warfare encompasses a spectrum of activities aimed at advancing national objectives while avoiding direct confrontation.

    What is Grey Zone Warfare?

    • Middle Ground: Grey zone warfare denotes an ambiguous space where activities blur the distinction between peace and war.
    • Diverse Tactics: It encompasses a wide array of activities, including economic coercion, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, proxy warfare, and territorial assertiveness, among others.

    Historical Context and Rationale

    • Cold War Legacy: The conditions of the Cold War era, marked by nuclear deterrence between superpowers, spurred the adoption of grey zone tactics to avoid catastrophic escalation.
    • Resourceful Adversaries: Nations resort to grey zone tactics to advance their interests without triggering a full-scale conflict, particularly when faced with superior adversaries.
    • Examples of Grey Zone Warfare:
    1. South China Sea Disputes: China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea, including maritime militia presence and territorial claims, exemplify grey zone warfare. Confrontations with countries like the Philippines underscore the contentious nature of these tactics.
    2. Taiwan Strait Tensions: Chinese military maneuvers near Taiwan and Taiwan’s complaints of increased Chinese military activity highlight the use of grey zone strategies to pressure without provoking outright conflict.
    3. US-China Economic Rivalry: Economic sanctions, trade tariffs, and maritime reconnaissance efforts by the United States against China illustrate grey zone competition beyond military realms.

    Motivations and Objectives

    • Covert Intentions: Grey zone tactics serve to advance strategic interests while maintaining plausible deniability and avoiding direct confrontation.
    • Escalation Management: Adversaries seek to exploit vulnerabilities and escalate tensions across multiple dimensions, complicating crisis management efforts.

    Challenges and Responses

    • Complexity of Response: Grey zone warfare poses challenges in crafting appropriate responses, as actions are often covert and multifaceted.
    • Risk of Over-Escalation: Tactics such as baiting adversaries into escalation can lead to unintended consequences and heightened tensions, necessitating cautious crisis management.

  • Grant Permanent Commission to Women: SC to Coast Guard

    coast guard

    In the news:

    • The Supreme Court emphasized the need for the Indian Coast Guard to grant Permanent Commission to women officers. Further, CJI too directed the Indian Coast Guard to consider it, indicating the court’s willingness to intervene if necessary.

    Context:

    • Attorney-General highlighted operational difficulties in implementing permanent commissions for Short Service Commission Officers.
    • AG suggested to limit permanent commission for women to 10%, stressing that women should not be considered inferior.

    About the Indian Coast Guard

    •  The Indian Coast Guard was established on August 1, 1978, as an armed force of the Union.
    • Its mission is to protect India’s maritime and national interests within its maritime zones. It enforces laws related to customs, immigration, poaching, and pollution at sea.
    •  It conducts round-the-year real-life operations at sea, despite being relatively small in size.
    • The Indian Navy operates globally, while the ICG is restricted to territorial waters extending out to 30 nautical miles from the coast.
    • The Indian Navy protects Indian ships and ports from external threats, while the ICG enforces maritime laws, ensures safety, and preserves the marine environment within territorial waters.

    Significance of the Permanent Commission for Women:

    • Gender Equality: Permanent Commission for Women in the Armed Forces removes gender discrimination.
    • Secure Employment: It provides increased job security and extended tenure for women officers. It can also grant equal entitlements as men, including pension benefits after 20 years of service.
    • Fostering Opportunities: Ensures economic opportunities, and improves social conditions, and dignity for women.
    • Behavioral change in the Society: It can encourage more women to join the Armed Forces, expanding the talent pool and addressing officer shortages.

    What are the challenges faced by Women Officers in the Indian Armed Forces?

    • Gender Bias and Discrimination: Women face biases from male officers who question their commitment due to marriage or family responsibilities. Biases exist among both genders, affecting the perception of women officers’ capabilities.
    • Limited Career Opportunities: Women officers have historically faced restrictions in combat roles, limiting their career advancement. Challenges in obtaining commanding positions due to gender norms and lack of representation in leadership roles.
    • Work Environment Issues: Lack of gender-sensitive facilities like separate toilets for women officers at certain postings. Unequal treatment and expectations, such as proving themselves more than male counterparts for recognition is a major challenge.
    • Societal and Cultural Barriers: Traditional societal norms hinder the acceptance of women in combat roles and leadership positions. The need for a shift in societal attitudes towards viewing women as equals in the armed forces.
    • Recruitment and Retention Challenges: Recruitment and retention rates in the armed forces are affected by the lack of a strong mixed-gender force. The Indian Army’s decision not to allow women in commanding roles impacts recruitment and retention efforts.

    What can be the Balanced Approach for Women in the Armed Forces (Way Forward)?

    • Acceptance of Gender-specific Rights: Acknowledge and incorporate gender-specific rights like maternity and child care leave into the policies of the armed forces.
    • Equality in Physical Fitness Standards: Physical fitness standards should be role-based, not gender-based, to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all officers.
    • Need to go with Merit-based Promotion: Women officers should compete on merit without any preferential treatment or discrimination, following a merit-driven approach for promotions.
    • Developing of Pragmatic Policies: The armed forces need to adopt a pragmatic policy for the gradual inclusion of women in all ranks and disciplines, shedding patriarchal attitudes and creating necessary infrastructure.
    • Need for the Codification of Rules and Regulations: Codify terms of service for women officers considering organizational interests, establish military laws to address gender crimes, and ensure that only volunteer women meeting psychological and physical fitness standards join combat roles.

    Try this PYQ from CS Mains 2021:

    Q. “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”4o2m0fds5r” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Trilateral Exercise Dosti-16 kicks off

    Introduction

    • Indian and Sri Lankan coast guard ships recently arrived in the Maldives to participate in the trilateral coast guard exercise Dosti 16.

    Exercise Dosti

    • Trilateral Collaboration: Dosti is a trilateral coast guard exercise involving India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
    • Biennial Event: Conducted biennially, the exercise serves as a platform for enhancing cooperation and interoperability among participating nations.
    • Inception: Initiated in 1991 between the Indian and Maldives Coast Guards, with Sri Lanka joining in 2012.
    • Previous Editions: The exercise, last held in 2021, focuses on various maritime scenarios, including search and rescue operations and pollution response.

    Objectives and Focus Areas

    • Enhancing Friendship: Dosti aims to strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual trust among the coast guards of participating nations.
    • Operational Capability: The exercise emphasizes enhancing operational capability and interoperability through joint drills and exercises.
    • Maritime Safety: Exercises and drills focus on providing assistance during sea accidents, combating sea pollution, and addressing challenges like oil spills.

    Dosti 16: Current Edition

    • Edition Details: Dosti 16 marks the 16th edition of the exercise, continuing the tradition of fostering maritime cooperation.
    • Participating Forces: The coast guards of India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, along with observers from Bangladesh, are actively participating.
    • Indian Contribution: India’s participation includes vessels like ICGS Samarth (with integral helo), ICGS Abhinav, and ICG Dornier, showcasing its commitment to regional maritime security.

  • It is the conditioning of the Agniveer that merits attention

    Understanding the Operational Environment: the Human Dimension | Global Strategy

    Why in the News?

    While initial feedback on the scheme is positive, there are challenges in integrating these recruits into military units, particularly regarding unit cohesion and psychological assimilation.

    About Agniveer Scheme:

    Aim: As a reform in Indian defense policy, it aims to recruit and retain young men and women in the armed forces through a short-service manpower model.

    Key Highlights of the Scheme:

    • Introduction of the Agnipath scheme to reform defense recruitment.
    • Focus on a short-service manpower model with the potential for retention.
    • Significant unit cohesion and psychological assimilation for effective combat readiness.
    • Emphasizes on the enduring significance of the human element in warfare despite technological advancements.

    Key Challenges:

    • Ensuring seamless integration of Agniveers into military units.
    • Nurturing unit cohesion and camaraderie among recruits.
    • Addressing potential issues of competition and one-upmanship among Agniveers.
    • Managing the psychological well-being and personality traits of recruits.
    • Lack of a formal psychology test in the recruitment process.

    Main Terms:

    • Agnipath scheme: Indian defense policy reform for recruitment and retention.
    • Agniveers: Young men and women recruited under the Agnipath scheme.
    • Unit cohesion: The bond and teamwork within military units.
    • Combat readiness: Preparedness of military units for combat situations.
    • Human element: Importance of individual soldiers’ character and relationships in warfare.

    Important Phrases:

    • “Agniveers into the milieu of military units”
    • “unit pride flows out of unit cohesion”
    • “technology-based counter-measures”
    • “focus on the human element”
    • “psychological assimilation”

    Quotes:

    • “I hold it to be one of the simplest truths of war that the thing which enables a soldier to keep going with his weapon is the near presence or the presumed presence of a comrade.” – S.L.A. Marshall

    Anecdotes:

    • Reference to Russia-Ukraine conflict and Israel-Hamas conflict to highlight the enduring significance of the human element in warfare.

    Useful Statements:

    • “Irrespective of technological advancements in the realm of warfare, the character of a soldier to stand by his flanking mate can never be undermined.”
    • “The onerous challenge would be to arrest any germination of an undesired personality trait among the lot given that 25% of the Agniveers will stay back.”
    • “The government should consider introducing a test of ‘psychology’ as part of the recruitment process.”

    Examples and References:

    • Mention of Agniveers’ positive feedback from units.
    • Reference to S.L.A. Marshall’s observations on the importance of comradeship in war.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article emphasizes the importance of the human element in military operations despite technological advancements.
    • It highlights challenges in integrating new recruits into military units and maintaining unit cohesion.

    Way Forward:

    • Address challenges in integrating Agniveers into military units.
    • Prioritize psychological assimilation and character development alongside technical training.
    • Consider implementing a psychology test in the recruitment process for better assessment and management of recruits.

    Overall, the article underscores the importance of balancing technological advancements with the enduring significance of individual character and unit cohesion in military operations. It calls for a strategic approach in integrating and nurturing new recruits to ensure effective combat readiness.

  • Why India is fencing its border with Myanmar — and why that could be a problem

    Free Movement Regime is aiding illegal immigration.

    Central Idea:
    The article discusses the complex situation at the Indian-Myanmar border, particularly in Mizoram, highlighting the influx of Myanmar soldiers seeking refuge and the growing influence of rebel groups. It also examines India’s response to these developments, focusing on the challenges posed by border security, economic interests, and diplomatic considerations.

    Key Highlights:

    • Refugee Crisis: Myanmar soldiers fleeing conflict in Chin State seek refuge in Mizoram, exacerbating tensions at the border.
    • Rebel Advancements: Rebel groups, such as the Chin National Army and the Arakan Army, gain control over significant territories along the border, challenging the authority of the Myanmar government.
    • Indian Response: India grapples with the security implications of the border situation, considering measures like building fences and ending the Free Movement Regime (FMR).
    • Economic Interests: India’s economic interests in Myanmar, particularly in rebel-held areas like Rakhine State, necessitate a cautious approach amid escalating conflict.
    • Diplomatic Dynamics: India’s policies in the region are influenced by considerations of regional stability, cooperation with Myanmar’s government, and competing interests with China.

    Key Challenges:

    • Security Concerns: India faces challenges in maintaining border security amidst escalating conflict and infiltration by armed groups.
    • Economic Implications: Balancing economic interests with security concerns poses a dilemma for Indian policymakers.
    • Diplomatic Complexity: India must navigate diplomatic relations with Myanmar while considering regional dynamics and competition with China.
    • Social Impact: Measures like ending the Free Movement Regime may strain familial and tribal ties across the border, potentially leading to social unrest.

    Main Terms:

    • Rebel Groups
    • Free Movement Regime (FMR)
    • Border Security
    • Refugee Crisis
    • Economic Interests
    • Regional Stability

    Important Phrases:

    • “Liberated zones”
    • “Border fencing”
    • “Neighbourhood First”
    • “Act East”
    • “Arakan Army surged”

    Quotes:

    • “We were surprised by how quickly the army posts fell.”
    • “…the kinship and tribal ties are such that they will not be curbed by the measures.”
    • “Neither China nor India are likely to change their current policies till such a viable process is in place.”

    Useful Statements:

    • “Calls for fencing the border have been strongest from the beleaguered Chief Minister of Manipur.”
    • “India has not retreated from its support to the army dispensation in Myanmar.”
    • “Rebel armed groups, some of which have been fighting the Myanmar army for over 70 years, are unlikely to be able to march on the capital of Naypyidaw.”

    Examples and References:

    • Chin National Army’s control over Chin State.
    • Arakan Army’s campaign in Paletwa.
    • India’s Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project in Rakhine State.

    Facts and Data:

    • Chin refugees sheltering in Mizoram after the 2021 coup in Myanmar.
    • India’s eastern border with Myanmar.
    • Proposal to end the Free Movement Regime allowing movement up to 16 km across borders.

    Critical Analysis:

    The article provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding the Indian-Myanmar border situation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of security, economic, and diplomatic factors. It highlights the challenges faced by India in maintaining stability in the region amidst escalating conflict and competing interests with China.

    Way Forward:

    • India should adopt a balanced approach that prioritizes both security and economic interests.
    • Diplomatic engagement with Myanmar should focus on promoting stability and addressing the root causes of conflict.
    • Efforts to secure the border should be accompanied by measures to mitigate social and economic impacts on border communities.

    Overall, a comprehensive strategy that considers the multifaceted nature of the border situation is essential for India to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by its eastern frontier with Myanmar.

  • How Courts have been Granting Bail in UAPA cases?

    Introduction  

    • The Supreme Court’s recent decision to deny bail to an accused in an alleged “Khalistan module,” highlights the stringent bail provisions under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
    • Unlike ordinary criminal law, the UAPA imposes higher hurdles for granting bail, reflecting the gravity of offenses related to terrorism and unlawful activities.

    About Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA)

    Description
    Purpose To provide for the prevention of certain unlawful activities of individuals and associations, dealing with terrorist activities, and activities directed against the integrity and sovereignty of India.
    Applicability
    • Indian and foreign nationals and applies throughout India.
    • Citizens of India outside India, persons in the service of the Government, and persons on ships and aircraft registered in India.
    Origin
    • Enacted in 1967 based on the recommendation of the Committee on National Integration and Regionalism.
    • Followed the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act, 1963, which empowered Parliament to impose reasonable restrictions on freedom of speech and expression, right to assemble peaceably, and right to form associations or unions.
    Key Provisions
    • Declaration as unlawful (Section 3): Central government has absolute power to declare any association unlawful.
    • Chargesheet (Section 45): Investigating agency must file a chargesheet within 180 days after arrests, extendable further after court intimation.
    • Punishment (Section 16, 18): Includes death penalty and life imprisonment.
    2004 Amendment
    • Added “Terrorist Act”: To the list of offenses enabling the ban of organizations involved in terrorist activities.
    • Expanded the definition of “unlawful” activities: To include terrorist acts, in addition to actions related to secession and cession of territory.
    2019 Amendment
    • Central Government to designate individuals as terrorists based on specific grounds.
    • National Investigation Agency (NIA) DG, authority to approve seizure or attachment of property during NIA investigations.
    • NIA officers of the rank of Inspector or above to investigate terrorism cases, expanding the scope from officers of the rank of Deputy Superintendent or Assistant Commissioner of Police.

    Bail Provisions in UAPA: Section 43D (5)  

    • Key Provision: Section 43D (5) of the UAPA stipulates that accused individuals charged under specific chapters of the Act shall not be granted bail unless certain conditions are met.
    • Bail Criteria: The law places the burden on the accused to demonstrate to the court that the accusations against them are not prima facie true, shifting the onus from the prosecution to the defense.

    Impact of Judicial Precedents

    • Watali Judgment (2019): The Supreme Court’s ruling in Zahoor Ahmed Shah Watali v NIA established a precedent wherein bail decisions under the UAPA are based solely on accepting the prosecution’s case at face value.
    • Limitations on Defense: Legal scholars argue that the Watali judgment restricts the defense’s ability to challenge the prosecution’s case effectively, undermining the principle of a fair trial.

    Post-Watali Developments

    • Court Discretion: Despite the stringent bail provisions, courts have granted bail in certain cases, emphasizing the need for specific, individual charges supported by credible evidence.
    • Differing Judicial Interpretations: Subsequent judgments, such as in Union of India vs KA Najeeb (February 2021) and Vernon Gonsalves v State of Maharashtra (July 2023), have provided nuances to the bail criteria, recognizing the importance of balancing liberty with the right to a speedy trial.

    Challenges and Future Implications

    • Legal Ambiguity: Divergent interpretations by different benches highlight the need for clarity in UAPA bail provisions, with the potential for larger benches to resolve conflicting precedents.
    • Case Analysis: The recent denial of bail to a Khalistani protagonist underscores the predominance of the Watali ruling in UAPA bail decisions, despite potential inconsistencies with other judgments.

    Conclusion

    • Balancing Rights: The debate over UAPA bail provisions reflects the delicate balance between safeguarding national security and protecting individual liberties.
    • Legal Evolution: The evolution of judicial interpretations will shape the future landscape of UAPA bail jurisprudence, influencing the rights of accused individuals in cases involving national security concerns.

  • Downloading child pornography is an offence

    Voice out for Child Cyber Safety and Against Child Pornography - Prime Infoserv LLP

     

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses a recent judgment by the Madras High Court quashing judicial proceedings against an individual accused of downloading child pornography. It highlights the court’s interpretation of relevant legal provisions and challenges the court’s decision in light of the existing legal framework.

     

    Key Highlights:

    • The Madras High Court’s decision in S. Harish vs Inspector of Police quashed proceedings against an accused who downloaded child pornography.
    • The court’s interpretation suggests that merely downloading and watching child pornography in private may not constitute an offense.
    • The article highlights the flaw in citing a precedent case from the Kerala High Court, which dealt with adult pornography, not child pornography.
    • It discusses the necessity of differentiating between adult pornography and child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) in legal terminology.
    • The article emphasizes the need for consistency between the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Information Technology (IT) Act.

     

    Key Challenges:

    • Interpretation of legal provisions regarding the definition and offense of child pornography.
    • Ensuring consistency between different legal frameworks, particularly the POCSO Act and the IT Act.
    • Addressing the complexities of cybercrimes and the exploitation of children online.
    • Balancing the protection of children with individual rights and privacy concerns.
    • Clarifying the scope and application of legal precedents in cases involving child pornography.

     

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Child pornography
    • Information Technology (IT) Act
    • Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act
    • CyberTipline reports
    • Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM)

     

    Key Quotes:

    • “The High Court categorically said that watching child pornography per se was not an offence…”
    • “The Madras High Court used its inherent powers under Section 482 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)…”
    • “The National Crime Records Bureau… regularly gets geo-tagged CyberTipline reports…”
    • “It is important to mention here that Section 67 read with Sections 67A and 67B of the IT Act are a complete code…”

     

    Key Examples and References:

    • Case of S. Harish vs Inspector of Police in the Madras High Court.
    • Interpretation of legal provisions under Section 67B of the IT Act.
    • Precedent case from the Kerala High Court regarding adult pornography.
    • Use of CSAM terminology in addressing child exploitation online.
    • Guidelines from the Supreme Court in State of Haryana vs Bhajan Lal (1992).

     

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Section 67B of the IT Act criminalizes various acts related to child pornography.
    • The National Crime Records Bureau collaborates with the American National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
    • The article suggests an amendment to the POCSO Act to address inconsistencies with the IT Act.
    • The Madras High Court’s decision was based on an interpretation of legal provisions.

     

    Critical Analysis:

    The article provides a critical analysis of the Madras High Court’s decision regarding child pornography and raises valid concerns about its interpretation of relevant legal provisions. It highlights the need for consistency in legal frameworks and suggests potential amendments to address existing inconsistencies. However, it also acknowledges the complexities of cybercrimes and the challenges in balancing child protection with individual rights.

     

    Way Forward:

    • Ensure clarity in legal terminology and definitions related to child pornography.
    • Address inconsistencies between different legal frameworks, particularly the POCSO Act and the IT Act.
    • Enhance collaboration between law enforcement agencies and organizations combating online child exploitation.
    • Consider amendments to existing laws to adapt to evolving challenges in cyberspace.
    • Encourage public awareness and education on the prevention of child exploitation online.

  • [pib] Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’

    Introduction

    • The inaugural edition of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ was commenced in Rajasthan.

    Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’

    • It is a joint military exercise conducted between the armed forces of India and Saudi Arabia.
    • The exercise is designed to enhance the capabilities and interoperability of the troops from both nations in conducting joint operations in semi-desert terrains.
    • It focuses on tactical training and sharing best practices in conducting operations in a sub-conventional domain.
    • The primary objective is to strengthen the bond, cooperation, and camaraderie between the Indian and Saudi Arabian armed forces.
    • It also serves as a platform for achieving shared security objectives and fostering bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

    Key components of the Exercise

    • The exercise typically involves various military training activities such as establishing mobile vehicle checkposts, conducting cordon and search operations, house intervention drills, reflex shooting, slithering, and sniper firing.
    • These activities help in building the capacity of the troops to work together effectively in semi-desert terrains, which can be crucial for addressing security challenges.

  • A dark message to Delhi from Kangla Fort

    A dark message to Delhi from Kangla Fort - The Hindu

    Central Idea:

    The article discusses a significant event in Manipur where Meitei legislators, through a public oath at Kangla Fort, endorsed a six-point agenda with communal overtones, targeting the ‘Kuki’ community. This act, influenced by an armed militia called Arambai Tenggol, reflects a departure from constitutional duties and raises concerns about the legitimacy of elected representatives in a democratic state. The piece warns against the dangers of a radical agenda and highlights the potential parallels with historical incidents like the Bhindranwale episode in Punjab.

    Key Highlights:

    • Meitei legislators endorse a six-point agenda with communal overtones, targeting the ‘Kuki.’
    • The oath-taking event at Kangla Fort is orchestrated by the armed militia, Arambai Tenggol.
    • The agenda includes abrogating agreements, implementing NRC with 1951 as the base year, constructing a border fence, replacing Assam Rifles, removing ‘Kuki’ from Scheduled Tribe list, and relocating ‘Kuki refugees.’
    • The omission of ‘disarmament’ from the agenda raises concerns about the armed militia’s influence.

    Key Challenges:

    • The event reflects a departure from constitutional duties by elected representatives.
    • The influence of an armed militia on democratic processes raises questions about the legitimacy of the Indian state.
    • The communal overtones in the agenda may deepen the emotional, demographic, and territorial divide.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Shumang Leela: Traditional form of theatre in Manipur.
    • Kangla Fort: The symbolic and traditional seat of power in Manipur.
    • Arambai Tenggol: An armed militia influencing Meitei legislators and pushing a radical agenda.
    • Bhindranwale Moment: Reference to the radicalization and armed conflict in Punjab during the 1980s.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Legislators lost Tagore’s dream of ‘clear stream of reason’ and a fearless mind.”
    • “Elected representatives…pliable and can be blackmailed under duress.”
    • “Armed militia chose Kangla Fort to revive Meitei indigenous tradition, culture, and religion.”

    Key Examples/References:

    • The six-point agenda and its potential impact on the vulnerable Kuki-Zomi-Hmar groups.
    • The involvement of Arambais in violent attacks against Kuki-Zomi-Hmar villages.
    • The parallels drawn with the radicalization of youth in Punjab under Bhindranwale.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • The Arambai Tenggol retains control over a significant amount of arms and ammunition.
    • The communal agenda may lead to increased tensions between communities.
    • The armed militia’s influence raises concerns about the democratic process in Manipur.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The legislators’ omission of ‘disarmament’ suggests a compromise with the armed militia’s agenda.
    • The article warns against the potential consequences of allowing an armed militia to influence state decisions.
    • The communal overtones in the agenda are criticized for undermining democratic and constitutional principles.

    Way Forward:

    • Emphasize the need for elected representatives to uphold constitutional duties.
    • Advocate for dialogue and peaceful resolution to address the concerns of different communities.
    • Strengthen mechanisms to prevent the influence of armed militias on democratic processes.

    In conclusion, the article highlights the concerning events in Manipur, where elected representatives endorse a communal agenda influenced by an armed militia. It urges a recommitment to constitutional duties, warns against radicalization, and suggests a path forward through dialogue and democratic principles.

  • Kerala Governor gets Z+ Security Cover

    Introduction

    • The Union Home Ministry has provided a Z+ category security cordon manned by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers around Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan.

    VIP Security Provisions in India

    • In India, security is provided to high-risk individuals by the police and local government.
    • The level of security needed by any individual is decided by the Ministry of Home Affairs, based on inputs received from intelligence agencies which include the IB and R&AW.
    • Individuals such as PM, home minister, and other officials such as the National Security Advisor generally get security cover because of the positions they occupy.
    • In addition to this, persons who are believed to be under threat also receive security cover.

    What is Z+ Category Security?

    In India, the category covers are X, Y, Y-plus, Z, Z-plus, and SPG (Special Protection Group).

    • X Category: The protectee gets one gunman. Protectees in the Y category have one gunman for mobile security and one (plus four on rotation) for static security.
    • Y Plus category: It receives the cover of two gunmen (plus four on rotation) for mobile security, and one (plus four on rotation) for residence security,
    • Z Category: It has six gunmen for mobile security and two (plus 8) for residence security. They get 10 security personnel for mobile security, and two (plus 8) for residence security.
    • Z Plus Category: It is provided by National Security Guard commandos whereas the other category of security is provided by the Delhi police or the ITBP or CRPF personnel.

    What about Special Protection Group (SPG) Cover?

    • The SPG cover is meant only for the PM and his immediate family.
    • After Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her own security guards in 1984, the Rajiv Gandhi government decided to create a special cadre of security personnel for the PM.
    • In March 1985, following the recommendations of a committee set up by the Home Ministry, a special unit was created for this purpose under the Cabinet Secretariat.
    • This unit, initially called the Special Protection Unit, was renamed as Special Protection Group in April 1985.