Elevating the State’s Participation in the Resolution of its Internal Security Issues
Strengthening Centre-State Synergy to Resolve India’s Internal Security Challenges
Resolving Internal Security: Why Centre-State Collaboration Matters
By Pratyush Pran Sarma | CNSS Insights | May 2024
India’s internal security landscape is shaped by complex socio-political dynamics, including communal terrorism, insurgency, and regional unrest. While the Central government plays a pivotal role in national security, the State governments are equally crucial in addressing local grievances and building trust with communities.
The Federal Framework and Its Challenges
India’s federal structure was designed to accommodate regional aspirations. However, the Centre’s dominance in security matters often leads to alienation and mistrust among local populations. This disconnect can:
- Undermine public confidence
- Fuel violent mobilizations
- Perpetuate conflict cycles
The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, which outlines the division of powers, often creates ambiguity about the Centre’s role in regional conflicts, further complicating effective governance.
Winning Hearts and Minds: A Strategic Imperative
Unlike external threats, internal security challenges require a people-centric approach. The key lies in:
- Inclusive dialogue platforms
- Development-driven trust-building
- Transparent communication of governance efforts
When people see tangible benefits—education, healthcare, infrastructure—they are less likely to align with militant ideologies or separatist movements.
The Role of Development in Security
Development policies are not just economic tools—they are instruments of legitimacy. Their successful implementation:
- Reinforces the State’s presence
- Demonstrates government accountability
- Builds citizenship-based fraternity
Moreover, coordinated efforts between the Centre and States ensure that development is both regionally relevant and socially inclusive.
The Way Forward: Dialogue, Trust, and Shared Governance
To resolve internal security threats, India must:
- Treat affected communities as integral to society
- Address grievances in their socio-political context
- Foster Centre-State cooperation without coercion
Only through mutual respect, shared responsibility, and inclusive governance can India achieve lasting peace and stability.