Good Friday reminded us the work that went into dealing with terrorists in Northern Ireland and bringing peace to that part of the Union. The BBC this past week broadcast a programme on the role of MI5 in dealing with terrorists. So what about a parallel with the revived terrorist groups like Hamas, Hezbollah which Israel is facing. Or take 1984 in India where militants locked themselves and desecrated the holiest of shrines. These groups alongside Bhindranwale (revered like Bin Laden by similar-minded people) included Babbar Khalsa (a proscribed terrorist organisation in the UK ) and Dal Khalsa.
So what is Britain to do? The UK playbook will be and is:
Information Gathering and Analysis:
Collect and analyse intelligence on the separatist group to better understand their motives, leadership, organizational structure, and connections to any extremist elements. Monitor their activities closely to ensure they do not pose a threat to the UK's national security or public safety. The British Indian diaspora have some very talented groups assisting on this with detailed profile of dangerous actors thanks to social media footprints.
Collaboration with Indian Intelligence:
Establish a working relationship with Indian intelligence agencies to exchange information and insights about the separatist group. This collaboration can help both countries assess potential risks and coordinate responses effectively.
Ensuring Public Safety:
Coordinate with law enforcement agencies to maintain public order and ensure the safety of protestors, counter-protestors, and bystanders. Provide clear guidelines on acceptable protest behaviour to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and minimize the risk of violent incidents. (There is now a permanent police presence outside the Indian High Commission in London).
Upholding Democratic Values:
Ensure the right to peaceful protest is protected while balancing national security concerns.
Monitoring External Support:
Investigate any foreign entities or individuals that may be providing financial, logistical, or moral support to the separatist group. If necessary, apply diplomatic and legal pressure to discourage their involvement. I have sight of documents asking the Government of Pakistan for support from at least one such group, for instance.
Media Engagement:
Engage with media outlets to provide accurate and balanced information on the situation, emphasizing the UK's commitment to democratic values and public safety. Work with Indian authorities to counter misinformation.
Of course there were many undercover operations by the British in Northern Ireland which would lead to the eventual end of terrorist activity on British soil. Those continue in monitoring the people outside the Indian High Commission who tore down the Indian flag.
