This past week the UK and Indian PMs spoke on issues concerning anti-Indian extremism in the UK.
What more might Indian officials in the UK do?
Intelligence Gathering:
Infiltrate the separatist group to gather critical information about their motives, leadership, connections to extremist elements, and plans. Assess the potential threat they pose to Indian interests in the UK and relay this information back to UK and Indian Governments.
Counter-Intelligence:
Monitor and counter any attempts by foreign intelligence agencies from India’s adversaries to exploit the protests for their advantage. Identify and neutralize potential threats to Indian interests and keep a close watch on any suspicious activities around the Indian High Commission.
Diplomatic Engagement:
Maintain close coordination with the UK Foreign Office and provide regular updates on the evolving situation. Advise on diplomatic strategies to engage with British authorities and facilitate dialogue between moderate groups and the Indian government.
Strategic Communications:
Work closely with the UK Foreign Office and India groups in the UK to counter the extremist narrative and present a balanced perspective on the situation. Utilize social media and other communication channels to disseminate accurate information and showcase India's commitment to unity, diversity, and democratic values.
Coordination with Law and Order agencies in the UK:
Establish communication channels with police and Home Office to exchange intelligence and insights about the extremist groups.. Collaborate on efforts to ensure public safety and prevent the protests from escalating into more violent incidents.
Asset Mobilization:
Mobilize trusted assets within the Indian diaspora in the UK to gather on-the-ground intelligence, counter the extremist narrative, and organize peaceful counter-protests that promote India's and UK’s core values.
Contingency Planning:
Develop contingency plans to protect Indian assets and citizens in the UK, in case the protests escalate or lead to violent incidents. This could include coordinating with local law enforcement, implementing enhanced security measures.
The reasons it is important Indian officials in the UK do take action is that without action these are the problems:
- Unchecked narratives: Allowing the extremists to continue without addressing the narrative could lead to the spread of misinformation and a distorted portrayal of India in the international community.
- Emboldening extremism: Inaction could be interpreted as weakness by the extremists, leading them to intensify their efforts and potentially gain more support.
- Loss of control: If the extremist protests continue unchallenged, they could spiral out of control and lead to violent confrontations or incidents that could harm India's interests.
- Perception of apathy: A lack of response from the Indian government might be perceived as indifference leading to a loss of credibility and trust among the international community.
What is certain, is tacitly the two PMs and their Governments will be continuing along the following lines:
Information Gathering and Analysis:
Collect and analyze intelligence on the extremist groups 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.
Collaboration with Indian Intelligence:
Continue a working relationship with Indian intelligence agencies to exchange information and insights about the extremists. 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 counter-protestors, and bystanders. Provide clear guidelines on acceptable protest behaviour to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and minimize the risk of violent incidents.
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 extremist groups. If necessary, apply diplomatic and legal pressure to discourage their involvement.
Diplomatic Efforts:
Encourage maintaining a strong bilateral relationship between the two countries.
