• UGI USER
  • Dec 06, 2023
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“UNRAVELLING THE CREDIBILITY CRISIS: INDIAN ESPIONAGE ALLEGATIONS AND DIPLOMATIC FALLOUT”

Syllabus:

  • GS2 : Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests, Indian Diaspora

In the intricate world of intelligence and covert operations, recent allegations against an Indian national for targeting Khalistani separatists in North America have not only thrust the government into a potential trial but also cast a dark shadow on New Delhi’s credibility. Examining this situation reveals a complex interplay between covert capacities and public messaging.

What is the Current issue ?

  • The US charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta with plotting to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil.
  • Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is a Khalistani separatist having U.S. and Canadian citizenship.
  • The foiled murder attempt adds complexity to the ongoing diplomatic challenges.

Operations Already Under Scrutiny

  • Intelligence Operations: Various intelligence operations faced legal challenges in friendly countries, ranging from the forcible return of

Latifah (UAE princess) in 2018 to the “attempted kidnap” of Mehul Choksi in 2021.

  • Espionage Conviction: Eight former Indian naval officers convicted in Qatar for espionage, currently under appeal.
  • Kulbhushan Jadhav Case: The ongoing challenge at the International Court of Justice, with Jadhav operating from Iran, poses diplomatic complexities.

Challenges Posed by Khalistani Groups:

  • Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, associated with Khalistani groups, have been declared terrorists by Indian agencies.
  • The promotion of separatism and violence by such individuals, even if possessing foreign citizenship, is unacceptable to India.
  • Western countries’ failure to take Khalistani separatism seriously despite India’s grievances highlights double standards in addressing violent threats.

Reasons for Trust Deficit and Breach of Confidence

  • Historical Precedent
    • 2008 Intelligence Sharing: Drawing parallels with 2008, when the U.S. warned about the 26/11 terror threat without revealing the information source, David Coleman Headley.
    • Impact on Bilateral Ties: Trust concerns persist despite growing ties in different spheres between India and the U.S.
  • Selective Information Sharing: The U.S. government’s reluctance to share the full extent of information on the recent allegations questions the proclaimed pinnacle of India-U.S. security cooperation.
  • Lack of Transparency: Despite multiple high-level meetings, India finds itself inadequately informed, highlighting a trust deficit in intelligence sharing.
  • Focus on Plot Over Curbing Activities: The U.S. prioritizing the conspiracy against Khalistani leaders indicates a lack of trust in India’s shared information.
  • Given India’s concerns with Pannun’s radical rhetoric, the U.S.’s actions are perceived as a breach of trust.

 

India’s Diplomatic Response and alleged Double Standards

  • Inconsistencies in Actions: While Canada faced outright rejection, the U.S. allegations prompted a calmer acceptance, raising questions about India’s diplomatic coherence.
  • Double Standard in Engagements: Divergent responses to Canadian and U.S. allegations reflect a double standard in India’s international engagements.

Impact on Foreign Relation

Impact on Western Allies

  • Five Eyes Criticisms: The rejection of Canadian allegations and acceptance of U.S. claims have implications for India’s image among Five Eyes nations.
  • Double Standards in Covert Operations: Despite the strengthening India-U.S. relationship, double standards persist in international responses to covert operations.

Impact on the Neighbourhood /Regional Diplomacy

  • Neighbouring Countries’ Concerns: Sri Lanka and Bangladesh initially supported India on the Canada issue, but revelations from the U.S. indictment prompted regional scrutiny.
  • Reassurance Efforts: South Block and embassies in the neighbourhood need to assure neighbouring countries about the extent of Indian agencies’ involvement.

Balancing India-US Ties:

  • The depth of India-US ties raises questions about whether the relationship will be value-based, as favoured by the US Democrats, or interest-based, as advocated by former President Trump.
  • The ties were reinforced during Indian PM’s visit to attend the G7 and Quad leaders’ summit, coinciding with the conclusion of the India-US Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap.

Image Projection: Hard Power vs. Soft Power

  • Global Image Considerations: The episode raises questions about India’s global image—whether it seeks to be a “hard power” risking international ties or a “soft power” adhering to international law.
  • Ministry of External Affairs’ Stance: Categorically denying covert, extra-judicial assassinations, the government commits to investigating the allegations, prompting a deeper scrutiny of India’s actions.

 Way Forward:

  • Diplomatic Dialogue: Initiate high-level talks to address US allegations openly. Establish transparent communication between intelligence agencies.
  • Respect Sovereignty: Reiterate the importance of respecting sovereignty. Emphasize evidence-based discussions and fairness.
  • Cooperative Investigation: Express willingness to fully cooperate in any investigation. Propose a joint task force for impartial inquiry.
  • Counterterrorism Collaboration: Strengthen bilateral counterterrorism efforts.Share intelligence on Khalistani groups.
  • Engage Diaspora: Counter Khalistani propaganda within Sikh communities. Foster cultural events to strengthen ties.
  • Diplomatic Channels: Articulate India’s position through diplomatic channels. Engage with international forums to showcase anti-terrorism efforts.
  • Public Diplomacy: Use media and social platforms to dispel misconceptions.

Conclusion

As New Delhi grapples with espionage allegations and diplomatic fallout, the nuanced examination of trust deficits, double standards, and regional implications becomes imperative. The lasting impact on India’s global image hinges on how the government aligns its actions with values and interests, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into the unfolding credibility crisis.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-dark-shadow-on-new-delhis-credibility/article67604323.ece/amp/

Mains Practice Question:

Critically evaluate the recent allegations of Indian espionage operations and their impact on India’s global image and diplomatic relations.