The New Anti-Terror Doctrine: Critical Analysis

The recent push by Prime Minister  to establish a "new normal" in India's fight against terrorism post the Pahalgam attack is under scrutiny for lacking comprehensive information and a rigorous security review of Operation Sindoor. This initiative raises questions regarding its effectiveness and strategic depth.

Policy and Democratic Process

• India, as a constitutional democracy, necessitates that national security policies be debated in Parliament.
• There is a call for political consensus that does not undermine democratic processes or prevent discussions on the efficacy of anti-terror policies.

Effectiveness of Military Responses

• 2016 URI Attack and 2019 Pulwama Attack: Surgical and air strikes were conducted but did not prevent subsequent attacks like Pahalgam.
• Investigations by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have not captured the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack, questioning deterrence efficacy.
• While over 100 terrorists were claimed to be neutralized in strikes, only five high-value targets have been confirmed.

Comparison with Past Incidents

• In the 2008 Mumbai attacks, India effectively captured and tried Ajmal Kasab, exposing the role of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Pakistan's ISI.
• Diplomatic isolation of Pakistan was a significant outcome post-26/11.

International Dynamics

• Prime Minister's warning to Pakistan to dismantle its "terror infrastructure" highlights limits of current doctrine given Pakistan's military-terrorism complex support from nations like the U.S., China, and Russia.
• Operation Sindoor's effectiveness is questioned without full strategic backing and clear military and civilian cost assessments.

Weaponry and Foreign Influence

• Despite "Made in India" rhetoric, key weapon systems in Operation Sindoor were foreign procurements.
• The intervention by the U.S. to impose a ceasefire in Operation Sindoor indicates ongoing foreign influence in regional conflict resolutions.

Diplomatic Engagement and Strategic Alternatives

• India's growing acceptance of U.S. mediation weakens the Simla Agreement, moving away from a bilateral conflict resolution framework.
• There is an argument for India to re-engage with Pakistan diplomatically considering changing global dynamics.

Concluding Recommendations

• Prioritize NIA investigations to bring Pahalgam attack perpetrators to justice, enhancing credibility of India's anti-terror stance.
• Renew diplomatic efforts with global powers to stop arming and financing Pakistan’s military-terror complex.
• Promote civilian rule and democracy in Pakistan to counter religious extremism and dismantle terrorist infrastructure.

These measures suggest a shift from military to diplomatic solutions as more feasible and realistic. An informed parliamentary debate on Operation Sindoor and the new anti-terror doctrine is essential prior to its establishment as the "new normal."