A dark shadow on New Delhi’s credibility

Central idea 

The article explores the credibility crisis faced by India in the realm of covert operations, focusing on recent legal challenges and a lack of trust with the U.S. The key themes include the impact on international relations, the dynamics of intelligence sharing, and the need for a balanced diplomatic approach to maintain India’s global image.

Key Highlights:

• Espionage and Covert Operations: Recent U.S. indictment against Nikhil Gupta for targeting Khalistani separatists in North America.
• Credibility Challenges: Multiple legal challenges to Indian intelligence operations abroad, raising questions about New Delhi’s credibility.
• Global Reach of Indian Security: Operations against Khalistani and Pakistani operatives in various countries, showcasing India’s security establishment’s capabilities.

Key Challenges:

• Credibility Crisis: Impact on New Delhi’s credibility in covert capacities and public messaging.
• Trust Deficit: Lack of trust and information sharing between India and the U.S.
• Diplomatic Balancing Act: Juggling international engagements and addressing concerns from western allies.

Key Terms/Phrases:

• Covert Operations Dynamics: Espionage, intelligence, and covert operations.
• Targeted Groups: Khalistani separatists, extradition, extra-judicial actions.
• International Relations: Trust deficit, bilateral ties, Five Eyes intelligence partnership.

Key Quotes/Statements:

• “In the shadowy world of espionage, intelligence and covert operations, the only rule is to never get caught carrying out a mission.”
• “Trust is still an issue.”
• “India’s double standard in its international engagements.”

Key Examples/References:

• Legal Battles: Forcible return of UAE princess, Latifah, and the “attempted kidnap” of Mehul Choksi.
• Convictions and Challenges: Conviction of Indian naval officers in Qatar for espionage.

Key Facts/Data:

• Alleged Operations: Involvement of Indian agencies in operations against Khalistani and Pakistani operatives globally.
• Information Gaps: Lack of full information sharing between the U.S. and India regarding the alleged conspiracy.

Critical Analysis:

• Credibility Concerns: Questions raised about India’s credibility in covert operations and international engagements.
• Trust Dynamics: Ongoing trust deficit between India and the U.S. impacting information sharing.
• Image Management: Balancing India’s image globally, considering hard and soft power approaches.

Way Forward:

• Transparent Investigations: Address credibility concerns through thorough and transparent investigations.
• Enhanced Information Sharing: Strengthen trust and information-sharing mechanisms with international partners.
• Adaptive Diplomacy: Evaluate and adjust India’s approach to covert operations to align with international norms.
• Diplomatic Outreach: Enhance diplomatic efforts to manage relationships with western allies and neighbors.