ED DAY-98 LUKMAAN IAS

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TOPIC- 15 YEARS OF 26/11, STILL INTERNAL SECURITY

CHALLENGES REMAIN FOR INDIA

THE CONTEXT: This year marked the 15th anniversary of the dreaded attack on Mumbai on November
26th, 2008. The attack lasted for four days, killing over 170 people and injuring over 300 people. The
attacks were carried out by ten terrorists of Lashkar-e-Taiba. The attack targeted famous heritage sites of
the city like Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station, Leopold Cafe, The Taj Mahal Palace, Nariman House,
etc.
MUMBAI ATTACK MAP

THE LAPSES IN SECURITY WHICH LED TO THE ATTACKS

INTELLIGENCE FAILURE  One of the most significant lapses was an intelligence failure
regarding the planning and execution of the attacks. There were clear
indications of a potential maritime threat, but the intelligence
agencies failed to connect the dots and anticipate the scale and
intensity of the attacks.

LACK OF COORDINATION  There was a lack of effective coordination among various intelligence
agencies and security forces. Information sharing between

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intelligence agencies at the state and central levels was inadequate,

hindering the ability to respond proactively.

INADEQUATE MARITIME  The terrorists entered Mumbai by sea, highlighting the inadequacy of
SECURITY maritime security measures. The lack of a robust coastal surveillance
system and the failure to monitor suspicious sea activities allowed
the attackers to reach the shores undetected.

DELAYED RESPONSE  The response time of security forces was delayed, allowing the
terrorists to continue their attacks for an extended period. Quick and
decisive action is crucial in countering such terrorist incidents, and
any delay can result in increased casualties.

POORLY EQUIPPED AND  The local police force faced challenges in handling a sophisticated
TRAINED POLICE FORCE and prolonged terrorist siege. The lack of specialised training,
equipment, and coordination with elite counterterrorism units like
the National Security Guard (NSG) hindered the initial response.

COMMUNICATION  During the attacks, communication among security agencies and

FAILURES between the security forces on the ground was not seamless.
Effective communication is critical in coordinating responses and
ensuring a swift and unified reaction to such incidents.

LACK OF PREPAREDNESS  Some of the targeted locations, including hotels and the railway
AT KEY TARGETS station, were not adequately prepared for a terrorist attack. This lack
of security measures, such as proper access controls and surveillance
systems, made these places vulnerable to attackers.

REFORMS AND CHANGES INITIATED BY THE GOVERNMENT

OF INDIA AFTER THE 26/11 ATTACKS
● Establishment of National Investigation Agency (NIA): The NIA was created in 2009 and has since
played a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting terrorism-related cases. Notable cases
include the investigation into the 2016 Uri attack and the Pulwama attack in 2019, demonstrating
the agency's commitment to addressing high-profile incidents.
● Strengthening Intelligence Agencies: Specialized units, such as the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC)
and the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID), were established to enhance intelligence
coordination. These agencies played a key role in thwarting various terror plots, including the
detection of the 2013 Hyderabad bombings and the 2014 Burdwan blast.
● National Security Guard (NSG) Capacity Building: The NSG underwent significant capacity
building, and its effectiveness was demonstrated during the 2016 Pathankot airbase attack. The
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NSG's swift response and successful neutralisation of terrorists showcased the improvements in
their capabilities and operational readiness.
● Maritime Security Measures: The Indian Coast Guard received additional resources, including
patrol vessels and aircraft, to strengthen maritime security. Notable successes include the
interception of a suspicious boat off the Gujarat coast in 2015, preventing a potential terrorist
infiltration.
● Upgradation of Border Security: The implementation of the Comprehensive Integrated Border
Management System (CIBMS) and the deployment of advanced surveillance technologies along
the India-Pakistan border showcased the government's commitment to addressing border
security challenges and preventing cross-border terrorism.
● Crisis Management and Preparedness: Crisis management exercises, such as Operation Black
Tornado conducted by the NSG, demonstrated improved coordination among various security
agencies. These exercises ensure a more synchronised and effective response, as seen during the
2019 Pulwama crisis.
● Cybersecurity Enhancements: The National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC) was established to
enhance cybersecurity capabilities. Ongoing efforts include the implementation of the National
Cyber Security Policy and the detection and prevention of cyber threats associated with terrorist
activities.
● Anti-Terror Laws and Legal Reforms: Amendments to anti-terrorism laws, including the Unlawful
Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), have provided law enforcement agencies with more effective
tools. These legal reforms facilitated the prosecution of individuals involved in the 2016 Pathankot
attack and the 2006 Mumbai train bombings.
● International Cooperation: India's engagement with international partners, such as the United
States, led to increased intelligence sharing. Global cooperation was evident in the designation of
individuals and entities supporting terrorism, underscoring India's commitment to a united front
against terror.
● Community Engagement and De-radicalization Programs: Initiatives like the "Maulana Azad
Model Schools" in minority-concentrated districts aimed to provide quality education and
promote a moderate worldview, contributing to community resilience against radicalisation.
These programs are crucial for countering extremist ideologies at the grassroots level.
● Use of Technology and Surveillance: The implementation of the Central Monitoring System (CMS)
and the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) demonstrates India's
commitment to technology-driven solutions. These systems have proven instrumental in
improving real-time monitoring and intelligence gathering.
● Capacity Building for State Police Forces: State police forces have undergone specialised training,
and the establishment of state-level anti-terrorism squads has enhanced their capabilities.
Instances such as the successful neutralisation of terrorists in Lucknow in 2017 showcased the
improved preparedness of state police forces.

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ORGANISATIONAL, TECHNICAL AND PROCEDURAL INITIATIVES TAKEN TO

IMPROVE MARITIME SECURITY
Organisational Initiatives
The Indian Navy was designated as the lead agency, charged with overall Coastal Security, in
coordination with the Indian Coast Guard, state marine police forces, port authorities, and other
central/state government organisations. The main steps initiated in order to preclude any recurrence
of 26/11 include the following:
● Joint Operation Centres (JOC) were set up at Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, and Port Blair;
jointly manned and operated by the Navy and Coast Guard.
● The ‘Sagar Prahari Bal’, comprising 1,000 men and 80 Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) was formed
for the protection of naval bases, Vulnerable Assets (VAs) and Vital Points (VPs) along the coast.
● Surface and air surveillance was enhanced by Indian Navy, Coast Guard Ships and aircraft along
the coast and offshore development areas.
● Marine Police of coastal states and Union Territories were strengthened.
● India launched Security And Growth for All (SAGAR) policy to integrate collaboration with Indian
Ocean region nations.
● Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) for better coordination and
awareness.
● India is part of various organisations and dialogues like IONS, IORA and India- EU maritime
dialogue.
Technical Initiatives
● Mission-based deployment of naval ships and aircraft. Like, INS Vikrant, Nuclear Submarines
and project 75I etc.
● India is working on digital cargo and bay arrangement optimization to enhance the efficiency of
maritime security.
● India introduced an advanced Electronic Warfare System 'Shakti' in Indian Navy.
● A National C3I Network was established for real-time maritime domain awareness, linking the
Navy and Coast Guard, both, at field and apex levels.
● Coastal Radar Stations and Auto Identification System (AIS) Chains were set up.
Procedural Initiatives
● Being a signatory of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), India
adheres to all its rules and regulations.
● India follows the procedure of operational interactions with friendly nations via joint exclusive
economic zones (EEZ) surveillance.

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NATIONAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY

● Aim: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was established with the primary aim of investigating
and addressing matters related to terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to national security. It
plays a crucial role in the prevention, detection, and prosecution of offences affecting the
sovereignty, integrity, and security of India.
● Statute: The National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, is the legislation that empowers and governs
the functioning of the NIA. Enacted on December 31, 2008, the law grants the agency the authority
to investigate and prosecute offences under various laws, including the Unlawful Activities
(Prevention) Act (UAPA) and other statutes related to terrorism and national security.
● Reason for its inception: The creation of the NIA was prompted by the necessity to have a dedicated
and specialised agency to handle cases related to terrorism and other threats to national security.
The 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008 underscored the need for a robust agency with the capability to
handle such complex and high-profile cases effectively.
● Some notable works of NIA:
○ Pulwama Attack (2019): In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, where a convoy of Indian
paramilitary personnel was targeted, the NIA took over the investigation. It played a crucial
role in unravelling the conspiracy and establishing links to Pakistan-based terrorist groups.
○ Uri Attack (2016): The NIA proactively investigated the Uri attack, which targeted an Indian
army base in Jammu and Kashmir. The agency uncovered evidence pointing to the
involvement of Pakistan-based militants and presented a comprehensive case.
○ Pune German Bakery Blast (2010): The NIA investigated the German Bakery blast in Pune
and successfully identified and prosecuted the individuals responsible for the terrorist attack.
○ Burdwan Blast (2014): The NIA investigated the Burdwan blast in West Bengal, uncovering a
larger conspiracy involving a terror module linked to a Bangladesh-based extremist group.
● NIA Amendment of 2019:
○ The modification also enables the organisation to investigate the subsequent new offences:
 Human trafficking.
 Crimes involving fake currency or banknotes.
 Manufacturing or selling of weapons that are forbidden.
 Crimes pertaining to the Explosive Substances Act of 1908.
 Cyberterrorism, also known as online terrorism.
○ It can now investigate crimes committed outside of Indian territory and is protected by
international agreements and the domestic legal systems of other nations.
○ The amendment also gives the central government the authority to set up Special Courts to
handle trials involving scheduled offences.
○ Under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, Special Courts have all of the powers of a court
of sessions.
○ Any question about a Special Court's jurisdiction shall be addressed to the Central
Government, whose decision on the subject will be final.
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○ The amendment increases the NIA's jurisdiction.

UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES (PREVENTION) ACT (UAPA)

● UAPA was passed in 1967. It aims at the effective prevention of unlawful activity associations in
India.
● Unlawful activity refers to any action taken by an individual or association intended to disrupt the
territorial integrity and sovereignty of India.
● The Act assigns absolute power to the central government, by way of which if the Centre deems an
activity as unlawful, then it may, by way of an Official Gazette, declare it so.
● It has the death penalty and life imprisonment as the highest punishments.
● Under UAPA, both Indian and foreign nationals can be charged. It will be applicable to the offenders
in the same manner, even if the crime is committed in a foreign land outside India.
● Under the UAPA, the investigating agency can file a charge sheet in maximum of 180 days after the
arrests, and the duration can be extended further after intimating the court.
● UAPA Amendment, 2019:
○ Individuals can be designated as terrorists without a court trial.
○ Definition of "terrorist act" expanded, potentially criminalizing dissent.
○ NIA empowered individuals and organizations accused of terrorism.
○ Bail for UAPA accused made difficult, leading to prolonged pre-trial detention.
○ Maximum punishment increased to life imprisonment or death.
○ Restrictions placed on media coverage of UAPA cases.
○ The Act applied retrospectively, raising legal concerns.

THE REMAINING INTERNAL SECURITY CHALLENGES

FOR INDIA POST 26/11 ATTACKS
● Insurgency and Terrorism:
○ Ongoing insurgencies and terrorist activities in certain regions, such as Jammu and Kashmir
and parts of the Northeast, continue to pose a threat to internal security.
○ Infiltration attempts across the border, particularly from groups based in Pakistan, remain a
concern, leading to sporadic incidents of violence.
● Cybersecurity Threats: The increasing reliance on digital technologies and the internet has given
rise to cybersecurity threats. Cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure, financial systems, and
sensitive data are potential challenges for India's internal security. UPSC’s website, attacks on AIIMS
and many more have been seen, which is also increasing substantially.

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● Naxalism and Left-Wing Extremism: Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) remains a significant challenge in
certain states, with Naxalite groups operating in remote and tribal areas. The government continues
efforts to address the root causes of the issue and enhance security measures in affected regions.
Sukma-Bijapur attack on CRPF in 2021 shows the prevalence of Left-Wing Extremism.
● Communal and Religious Tensions: Communal and religious tensions at times lead to incidents of
violence and pose a challenge to internal harmony. Ensuring social cohesion and managing inter-
community relations is an ongoing concern. The recent clashes of Nuh is a prime example of rising
communal and religious tensions.
● Border Security: Despite reforms and technological upgrades, managing and securing India's vast
land and maritime borders pose ongoing challenges. Smuggling, illegal migration, and cross-border
infiltrations can impact internal security.
● Radicalisation and Extremist Ideologies: The influence of radical ideologies, both religious and
ideological, remains a challenge. Efforts are needed to counter radicalisation and prevent
individuals from getting involved in extremist activities.
● Inadequate Policing Infrastructure: In some areas, the lack of modern policing infrastructure,
including advanced surveillance systems and well-equipped police forces, hinders effective law
enforcement.
● Political and Ethnic Unrest: Political and ethnic tensions in certain regions can contribute to internal
security challenges. Ensuring inclusive governance and addressing regional grievances is crucial for
maintaining stability. The clashes in Manipur have substantiated and bolstered ethnic unrest in
recent times.
● Drug Trafficking: India being sandwiched between the Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent is the
prime reason for drug smuggling. Also, the demand among youths has led to an increase in
smuggling by the drug cartels.
● Weaknesses in Intelligence Gathering: Despite reforms, challenges in intelligence gathering and
sharing persist. Enhancing coordination among various intelligence agencies at both state and
central levels is crucial for proactive responses.

AN ANALYSIS

 India's internal security has undergone significant improvements after the 26/11 attacks, with a
notable focus on intelligence, crisis response, and border security. The establishment of the NIA,
strengthening of intelligence agencies, and capacity building within security forces reflect a
commitment to addressing internal threats.
 However, the proposed changes, like the Multi-Agency Centre, are still not fully functional, states
are hesitant to share data on the grid, and the biggest challenge remains on how to gather, process
and act upon the data, in short, the coordination finds the prominent hurdle. Additionally,
numerous senior politicians of the government quoted for the formation of the National Counter

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Terrorism Center (NCTC), which is still to be operational, and the final decision has yet not been
taken over the underlying body’s inception.
 As India has a vast shoreline, Maritime security becomes binary, keeping the attack of 26/11 in
hindsight and enhancing the possibilities and capabilities of further attacks neutralized. The fool
proofing of internal security has a long way to go, but the silver lining is the positive steps being
taken in the right direction.

THE WAY FORWARD

● Integrated Intelligence Sharing:
○ Strengthening collaboration and information sharing among intelligence agencies at the
national and state levels.
○ Investing in technology for real-time data integration to enhance early threat detection.
● Advanced Training for Security Forces:
○ Implementing specialised and continuous training programs for police forces to handle
sophisticated and evolving security threats.
○ Enhancing coordination between local police and elite counter-terrorism units.
● Technological Modernization:
○ Accelerating the modernization of security forces with advanced surveillance equipment,
communication systems, and cyber capabilities.
○ Emphasizing the use of artificial intelligence and data analytics for proactive threat
assessment.
● Community Engagement and Awareness:
○ Developing community outreach programs to foster cooperation and trust between
communities and security forces.
○ Raising public awareness about the importance of reporting suspicious activities.
● Crisis Management and Response:
○ Conducting regular and realistic crisis management exercises involving multiple security
agencies to improve coordination and response times.
○ Establishing a centralized command system for swift decision-making during crises.
● Border and Coastal Security Strengthening:
○ Continuing investments in border infrastructure and technology to enhance surveillance and
deter cross-border threats.
○ Strengthening coastal security with advanced monitoring systems and increased patrolling.
● Public-Private Partnerships:
○ Fostering collaboration between the government and private sector for critical infrastructure
protection.
○ Encouraging private businesses to implement security measures and protocols.
● Focusing on Countering Radicalization:
○ Implementing programs to counter radicalization and extremist ideologies at the grassroots
level.
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○ Collaborating with religious and community leaders to promote a culture of tolerance and
inclusivity.
● Investment in Research and Development:
○ Allocating resources for research and development in security technologies to stay ahead of
emerging threats.
○ Encouraging innovation in countering unconventional security challenges.
● Public Awareness and Education:
○ Conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public on recognizing and reporting security
threats.
○ Integrating security education into school curricula to promote a culture of security
consciousness from an early age.
THE CONCLUSION: As India commemorates the 15th anniversary of the tragic 26/11 attacks, reflecting on
the progress made in bolstering internal security is imperative. While significant strides have been taken
in intelligence reform, crisis response, and border security, challenges persist. The evolving nature of
threats, including cyber warfare, insurgencies, and communal tensions, demands a continuous and
adaptive approach.

PYQs:
● What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and
procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security.
● Indian Government has recently strengthened the anti-terrorism laws by amending the unlawful
Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA act. Analyze the changes in the context of the
prevailing security environment while discussing the scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by
human rights organizations.
Practice Questions:
● Examine the internal security challenges that persist in India after the 26/11. Evaluate the
effectiveness of reforms and initiatives taken by the government to address these challenges.
● Reflecting on the 15 years post the 26/11 attacks, analyze the role of the National Investigation
Agency (NIA) in addressing terrorism-related issues in India. Highlight the agency's achievements,
challenges faced, and suggest measures for further strengthening its capacity to combat evolving
threats to national security.

SOURCES
 https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/review-internal-security-challenges-566196
 https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/15-years-if-26-11-mumbai-attack-celebs-
says-horror-of-terrorist-attack-still-afresh-in-people-s-minds-news-333025
 https://telanganatoday.com/editorial-review-internal-security-challenges

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