In White-collar terrorism, professionalsand educated individuals like doctors, engineers, etc., weaponize their professional legitimacy, academic networks and access to financial and institutional resources for violent ends.
- It is in contrast to the long held notion where terror outfits radicalise unemployed, vulnerable individuals.
Key Reasons for the Emergence of White Collar Terrorism
- Relative Deprivation Theory: In this, extremism is driven by a perceived sense that a group needs to assert itself, not just by extreme poverty.
- Social Identity Theory: Grievances can be channelled into a search for an all-encompassing identity. E.g., Professional designation might be subordinated to an extremist 'higher-purpose' identity.
- Rise of Digital Technology: Digital Insulated Platforms require technical skills, where professionals act as a strategic asset.
Other Emerging Forms of Terrorism
- Lone Wolf Terrorism: It involves like-minded individuals to “act alone” to commit violent crimes. E.g., Christchurch, New Zealand.
- Suicide Bombings: It uses a terrorists as a human bomb, who is certain to die. E.g., Pulwama Attack.
- Sleeper Cells: Operatives who live quietly in a country, blending into society until they are told to act.
- Over Ground Workers (OGWs): People who provide logistic support to militants and assist them.
India’s Counter Terrorism Strategy
|