Global collaboration and a multi-dimensional approach of checks and balances is the only solution to peace in an unstable and scary world, in terms of security
Condemnation should go loud and clear against the terrorist attack during a concert of US singer and actress Ariana Grande in Manchester, that left more than 22 people dead and scores injured. The suicide terrorist attacker Salman Abedi's links with the Al Qaeda and the Islamic State (IS) has sent alarming signals as terrorism has almost engulfed entire Europe. But this is not an isolated incident in Britain — a few days earlier, a terrorist attack outside Westminster killed five and left more than 28 wounded. These attacks are a disturbing reminder of an array of issues which Britain has to come to terms with.
There is a clear message that could be derived from such attacks — gradually the world in general, and Europe in particular, will be witnessing more of such sporadic attacks, wherein cars and trucks will be used to kill innocent civilians.
A few months ago, religiously-motivated terrorist Mohamed Salmene lahouaiej-Bouhlel rammed a 20 tonne truck in Nice, France, killing a number of people. The post-modern and post-truth world is gradually witnessing a steep rise in religiously motivated attacks. There is also the use of local and small-level technology in creating chaotic scenes and sending out hidden messages. There have been desperate attempts on the part of the IS to target the nationals of those countries which are a part of formal or informal coalition against the Islamic militants. The fact, that the latest attack has happened on the first anniversary of the Brussels attack that killed more than 32 has sent alarming signals. It is now clear that mere rhetoric to end terrorism will not do. It is high time nations across the globe take the toughest measures against the slaughterers of civil society.
US President Donald Trump has already vowed to carry out on his fight to finish the IS and other jihadi terrorists. Coming days are certainly going to provide defining moments for British Prime Minister Theresa May as well. The recent attacks by terrorists across the globe demonstrate their ability to put a limit to proactive anti-terrorist measures. Besides, they show the ability of a single terrorist to kill many civilians at once. The recent upsurge in serial bomb blasts in different parts of the world has marked the beginning of a pernicious era of terrorism and sent out a common message about the ability of modern terrorists to attack with great accuracy at a time and place of their choice. The increasing cases of drug-peddling and their support to terrorists and subversive activities have compelled the Government to enforce drug laws vigorously and promptly. This can become highly effective if the speedy and proper trial is ensured. The perpetrators of violence are not afraid of giving away their own lives. In an era of globalisation world is becoming smaller and more integrated but due to its inner paradoxes it is getting fragmented and turning out to be a highly sectarian and fragmented place. During the last few years, the series of violent incidents have not only demonstrated the deadly striking capabilities of today’s sub-continental terrorists, but they have also confirmed that terrorists have declared war against civilised states. Such attacks — worldwide — have not only exposed the chinks in the armour of security and intelligence networks but they have also robbed the confidence of nations in controlling terrorism.
The need of the hour is a political will to solve problems that generate terrorism. This threat can be encountered by training and development of a new mechanism bolstered by a multi-dimensional and multi-layered approach based on checks and balances. In changing environment, the security apparatus and police need to diversify its activities by bringing together technical and professional expertise based on many decades of experience in maintaining internal security. In this regard, the most crucial aspect is to develop capability to anticipate security needs. This is possible by conducting specialised courses for monitoring security situations. Unless we attack the roots of terrorism, only superficial relief will be seen; terrorism will still increase in the total quantum of its impact. Creation of general awareness and organisation of public support against terrorist acts could be of immense use.
While it is desirable to allow the police and the Armed Forces to employ better informed judgement about the local problems, there is, of course, a danger that this attempt of the Government could dilute the benefits to those deemed deserving and, thus, any possibility of peace and negotiation. These days terrorists are more confident than ever before, of their access to the vulnerable points before carrying out any of their attack and they plan their attack in a heroic manner for the justification and fulfillment of a cause.
There is an apprehension that with the availability of biological and chemical weapons, the terrorists will start their campaign with renewed vigour and pursue their mission of destruction which will be virtually unstoppable. In a situation, where terrorist violence has assumed nightmarish proportions, the world should devise a new strategy encompassing all interests and ramifications. It is high time that various countries of the world devise a clear policy of strategic co-ordination to combat this international menace. No civilised political system can progress until terrorism is wiped out, but terrorism cannot be eliminated unless there is a political solution. The states affected by terrorism should open the avenues for negotiated settlement of disputes and exhibit genuine willingness to resolve long-festering problems. The efforts of the state to maintain security on the face of terrorist threats should go hand in hand with increased devolution of power to the people and greater democratisation of the system.
(The writer is a Chandigarh-based Professor of Political Science)