The recent exposure of a covert network allegedly operated by India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) within Pakistan illustrates a significant example of the complexities in international relations and the lengths to which states may go to assert their influence in the region.
The alleged RAW network is said to be involved in one of the most notorious networks busted by Pakistani law enforcement agencies (LEAs). This network is accused of establishing and operating a complicated network throughout Pakistan. As its main objective, the network carried out task coordination between assassins and ground operators. Communication was maintained via encrypted methods such as WhatsApp, with orders and funds being sent through international accounts in Singapore, the UAE, South Africa, and Hong Kong.
According to reports, this network’s operating tactics included extensive observation and planning. This involved identifying targets, obtaining intelligence, and carrying out plans with precision. The operatives allegedly received clear instructions and cash incentives for their work. The network’s operations were conducted in strict secrecy and compartmentalization to ensure minimal traceability and maximum deniability.
Among the notable operations attributed to this network are the killings of Maulana Shahid Latif and Muhammad Riaz in Pakistan. These incidents were strategically framed by Indian media as counter-terrorist operations, according to reports. The operatives involved in these actions were allegedly recruited and radicalized to serve the network’s objectives, demonstrating the network’s capability to manipulate individuals and situations to its advantage.
Another network reportedly operating in Pakistan is linked to individuals believed to be associated with the alleged RAW network. This network is accused of planning and executing high-profile assassinations, including the aforementioned cases. This network’s structure was allegedly more complex, involving multiple layers of operatives and handlers. The planning and execution phases were meticulously managed, with each member assigned specific roles. This included logistics support, reconnaissance, and the actual execution of plans. A significant aspect of this network’s operation was the recruitment and radicalization of local individuals. Reports suggest that these recruits were exposed to extremist ideologies and promised financial rewards. This strategy not only facilitated the execution of operations but also helped in masking the actual masterminds behind these activities. The operations carried out by this network were marked by a high degree of planning and precision. For instance, the assassination of Muhammad Riaz involved several layers of operatives, with each layer unaware of the other’s identity, ensuring operational security.
Motives Behind Operating in Pakistan
One of the primary goals of these networks was to collect intelligence. This comprised political, military, and economic intelligence, which may help India understand and potentially influence regional processes. Another possible cause is Pakistan’s destabilization. These networks sought to instill fear and discontent in the country by conducting covert activities. This might erode Pakistan’s internal cohesion and regional standing, thereby helping India’s strategic goals. India’s operations have continuously been characterized in terms of counter-terrorism. The operations linked to these networks were frequently portrayed as actions against terrorists, which aligned with India’s larger narrative of battling terrorism in the region. This not only justifies their presence but also helps to gather international support for India’s security concerns.
India’s Regional Dominance
India’s desire for regional domination is a driving force behind these actions. Establishing a covert network in Pakistan could be viewed as part of a bigger strategy to assert India’s dominance in South Asia. This is consistent with the realist perspective on international affairs, which sees states as actors pursuing power and security in an anarchic international system. India remains anxious over China’s expanding influence in Pakistan, particularly through programs such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). By running networks in Pakistan, India may be attempting to offset China’s presence and influence in its neighboring territories.
International Repercussions and Ethical Considerations
The uncovering of these networks and their operations has had a tremendous international impact. It has aroused concerns about India’s commitment to international rules and standards, particularly in terms of respecting the sovereignty of other countries. Such steps could affect India’s relations with other countries, even its friends, as seen by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s reported words.
From an ethical standpoint, these actions call into question the ideals of sovereignty and non-interference established by international law. They also express concern about the use of violence and extrajudicial measures in international relations. The discovery of these networks functioning within Pakistan emphasizes the intricate and frequently hidden nature of statecraft in international relations. While states may use such measures in the pursuit of security and regional domination, they risk severe international repercussions and ethical quandaries. The problem for India in navigating its regional goals is to strike a balance between its security objectives, international duties, and image as a responsible global participant. The unfolding of these events, as well as their repercussions, will continue to pique the international community’s interest and debate, reflecting South Asia’s ever-changing power balances and diplomacies.
