NCJ Number
219459
Date Published
March 2007
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the nature and scope of terrorism in India as well as the country's initiatives and legal regime designed to counter terrorism.
Abstract
India has put in place a comprehensive legal infrastructure that gives priority to countering terrorism. The provisions of various domestic laws intended to counter terrorism are outlined. This paper's suggestions for combating terrorism include having a clearly defined policy against terrorism; using proactive measures when appropriate and when they are likely to be effective; taking punitive action against terrorism's sympathizers, beneficiaries, and funding sources; and organizing a global denunciation and alienation of states that sponsor or fail to act against terrorism. India has been victimized by terrorism--mostly cross-border state-sponsored terrorism--for over two decades. Despite the high costs in lives and property due to such terrorist attacks, India has maintained a counter strategy that emphasizes dialog, democratic political processes, and the rule of law. Any armed counter actions are based on the doctrine of "minimum use of force" within the framework of the Constitution, which guarantees human rights. In countering terrorism, India has supported all international efforts, particularly in the United Nations, to combat terrorism. It has been a leader in shaping international opinion and urging the international community to give priority to the fight against terror. India has consistently held the view that there is no justification for terrorism on any grounds and that the fight against terrorism must be central in achieving peace and security within and among nations. This paper describes India's multilateral arrangements and agreements for countering terrorism, as well as regional arrangements, bilateral arrangements, and the use of Interpol. Appended Indian violence statistics for 2001-2005, a list of terrorist organizations banned in India, and a summary of counterinsurgency operations in Assam from January 1, 2005 to December 25, 2005