27-November-2024-Editorial

26/11 MUMBAI ATTACKS

The 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, executed by the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted key locations in the city, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Nariman House, Oberoi Trident, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station.

These attacks revealed significant gaps in India’s security systems, leading to major reforms in counter-terrorism strategies.

Security Challenges Exposed During 26/11

Intelligence Sharing Failures

• Lack of real-time coordination between security agencies allowed the attackers to evade detection.
• Intelligence agencies failed to act upon prior warnings effectively.

Weak Maritime Security

• Porous Coastal Borders: Terrorists entered undetected via India’s coastline using a hijacked Indian fishing boat.
• Lack of Coordination: Poor integration among the Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police resulted in inadequate coastal surveillance.

Digital Vulnerabilities

• The attackers leveraged advanced communication tools and digital propaganda, highlighting gaps in cybersecurity and counter-radicalisation measures.

Inadequate Preparedness for Urban Terrorism

• Security forces lacked specialized training to handle simultaneous, multi-location attacks in urban settings.
• Delays in response and poor tactical coordination prolonged the hostage crisis.

Cybersecurity Gaps

• The terrorists used satellite phones to communicate with handlers in Pakistan, bypassing India’s surveillance mechanisms.

Key Reforms Implemented After 26/11

Enhanced Maritime Security

• The Indian Navy took charge of overall maritime security, with the Coast Guard managing territorial waters.
• Special Forces: Creation of Sagar Prahari Bal for coastal patrolling and rapid response.
• Regular coastal security drills involving state and central agencies were introduced.
• Installation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) for vessels over 20 meters to monitor movements.

Improved Intelligence Coordination

• Strengthened the Intelligence Bureau’s Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) for better information sharing.
• Expanded MAC’s scope to address radicalization and terror networks.

Institutional Frameworks

• National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC): Established to plan and coordinate anti-terrorism actions across states.
• National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID): Integrated databases like travel, financial, and telecommunication records to track terror suspects.
• Crime and Criminal Tracking Network (CCTNS): Linked police stations for streamlined investigations and data analysis.

Legal Reforms

• Strengthened the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) to address terrorism proactively.
• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was set up as a federal body to investigate terrorism cases across states.

Modernization of Police Forces

• Allocated funds for upgrading police infrastructure and equipping forces with modern weapons and technology.
• Trained police personnel for counter-terrorism and created specialized commando units.
• Established National Security Guard (NSG) hubs in Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata for rapid deployment.

International Cooperation

• Collaborated with the US for intelligence sharing and evidence collection.
• Global pressure led to Pakistan being placed on the FATF grey list, compelling action against terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Persistent Challenges in Coastal Security

• Vast Coastline: Monitoring India’s extensive 7,517 km coastline is a logistical challenge, especially with numerous fishing vessels and boats.
• Limited Surveillance Coverage: The AIS system excludes smaller vessels under 20 meters, which could still pose security threats.
• Varied Threats: Issues like smuggling, illegal migration, and terror infiltration complicate the security landscape.
• Dependence on Local Communities: Over-reliance on fishermen for intelligence is risky due to fear, lack of awareness, or distrust.
• Poor Infrastructure: Many state police forces remain undertrained and lack modern equipment, hindering coordinated efforts.

Way Forward

• Offensive and Deterrence Strategies: Institutionalize decisive actions like surgical strikes and airstrikes to deter terrorism effectively.
• Integrated Training and Exercises: Scale up multi-agency exercises to prepare security forces for coordinated responses. Include local police, paramilitary forces, and intelligence agencies in joint training programs.
• Enhanced Urban Security Plans: Develop comprehensive disaster management plans for cities to address man-made threats like terrorism.
• Strengthen Cybersecurity: Integrate cybersecurity and counter-terrorism training for agencies handling physical and digital threats.
• Community Engagement: Establish community-based “Awake Cells” involving citizens to report suspicious activities and assist law enforcement.
• Empowering Decision-Makers: Provide security personnel at all levels with the authority to act decisively during emergencies.

Conclusion

The 26/11 attacks were a wake-up call that exposed critical weaknesses in India’s security systems. While significant steps have been taken to address these gaps, continuous efforts are needed to adapt to evolving threats. A multi-pronged approach, including enhanced coordination, advanced technology, and community involvement, is essential to strengthen national security and ensure public safety.