Indian agencies to study counter radicalisation methods practised by Indonesia and Malaysia
- In Reports
- 09:34 PM, May 23, 2024
- Myind Staff
At a recent high-level security meeting, it was emphasised that Indian security agencies should explore adopting counter-radicalisation methods similar to those implemented by Indonesia and Malaysia to further enhance the country's existing counter-radicalisation model. As part of this initiative, a comprehensive study of the techniques employed in these two countries is currently underway.
The meeting, attended by the heads of all major security establishments in India, saw directives from top authorities to form a team dedicated to examining the practices followed by Indonesia and Malaysia in tackling counter-radicalisation. The Ministry of Home Affairs, Intelligence Bureau (IB), and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) are actively engaged in analysing these directions, according to sources familiar with the matter.
According to data from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD) at the University of Maryland, which documents terrorist attacks worldwide, there was a notable increase in the number of reported terror attacks in Southeast Asia starting in 2011. However, these numbers experienced a significant decline from 2016 onwards.
In 2013, the region recorded a high number of terrorist attacks, reaching as many as 1,001 incidents, according to data from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD). These attacks were attributed to 19 different groups, with at least 13 of them linked to radical Islam, as suggested by the GTD data. The subsequent significant decline in reported terror incidents from Southeast Asia has led experts to speculate that this trend may have prompted Indian agencies to explore counter-radicalisation practices employed by countries in the region.
A senior officer noted that Indonesia and Malaysia are viewed as two nations that have effectively addressed terrorism and radicalisation in Southeast Asia. He highlighted Indonesia's approach, noting that the most successful aspects of their de-radicalisation programs do not primarily focus on religious re-education. Instead, the country emphasises providing financial assistance to detainees during their period of detention. Efforts are also made to enhance their vocational skills to facilitate their successful reintegration into mainstream society. Additionally, many detainees receive medical assistance and financial aid as part of these efforts.
In Malaysia, however, the de-radicalisation initiatives notably incorporate religious rehabilitation, the officer added, speaking on condition of anonymity. "The process typically involves counselling to first dispel radical or misunderstood ideologies, followed by instilling corrective thinking through comprehensive educational programs related to Islamic or other religious studies," the officer explained.
Discussing the issue of radicalisation in India, YC Modi, former Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the country's premier anti-terror organisation, pointed out that the absence of an effective system for addressing religion-centric doubts among Muslim youths was one of the main factors contributing to their radicalisation, as they often seek answers to these questions online.
Modi emphasised that the internet is replete with hard-line and irrational ideologies that can influence unsuspecting young minds towards radical beliefs. He stressed the importance of modern and balanced Muslim NGOs stepping forward to address these issues.
The former NIA chief noted that this phenomenon had been observed in several investigations conducted by the NIA during his tenure and through interactions with terrorists arrested by the anti-radicalisation cell.
In a statement, Modi emphasised that the number of Indian youths joining terror groups, despite repeated efforts by organisations like the RSRS, is considerably lower than in countries with predominantly Muslim populations or certain Western nations. He suggested that since most of India's development and welfare schemes are religion-neutral, there is a need for effective communication to dispel the perception of religious discrimination among some Muslim groups.
Offering perspective, Rajat Mitra, a clinical psychologist with experience working with Islamic militants and radicalised youths, highlighted the consistent nature of counter-radicalisation practices across different countries, including Afghanistan, Malaysia, and Indonesia. He noted that India's focus on this region is likely due to its current volatility. For example, Malaysia shares a volatile border with Thailand, where an Islamic movement is active. Additionally, the presence of a US base in the region suggests a rise in militancy, as the US aims to maintain control over the area.
Drawing on his experience working with Islamists in Southeast Asia, Mitra added, "As India's influence expands, it becomes crucial to monitor secessionist movements and similar activities in this region. These movements have the potential to quickly establish connections with counterparts in India or neighbouring countries, which could impact the flow of arms and money."
Image Source: IDSA
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