Title: The Indian Intelligence Agency in turmoil: behind the affair of the assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada
Introduction:
India’s foreign intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), finds itself in the spotlight following accusations from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that it was behind the assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada. This situation triggered a diplomatic crisis between the two countries and raised many questions about the involvement of the RAW in operations outside the regional area.
A regional intelligence service:
The RAW, established in 1968 by Indira Gandhi, had the main mission of protecting India against external threats, particularly those emanating from neighboring countries. Its reach was therefore essentially regional, with operations centered on Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan and the border with China. This focus can be explained by the history of the agency and the conflicts that India faced in the 1960s.
Political scandals and the reform of the intelligence services:
The RAW experienced several political scandals related to the manipulation of spies by the ruling party at the time, the Congress. It took reforms in the 1990s to depoliticize Indian intelligence services. Since then, the RAW has built a strong reputation in clandestine operations, contributing to regional crises such as the Bangladesh War of Independence against Pakistan in 1971 and the strengthening of Indian influence in Afghanistan.
Influence operations rather than targeted assassinations:
Despite its reputation for effectiveness, the RAW is known more for achieving its goals through influence and clandestine operations rather than targeted assassinations. Specialists emphasize that RAW agents favor the use of financial resources to achieve their objectives, rather than resorting to violent methods. This approach is in line with the way the Indian intelligence services operate, which report directly to the Prime Minister.
Conclusion:
The case of the assassination of the Sikh activist in Canada and the accusations against the RAW have highlighted an intelligence agency usually focused on its regional zone of influence. Despite its reputation for efficiency, the RAW has always favored influence operations rather than targeted assassinations. The outcome of this diplomatic crisis between Canada and India remains uncertain, but it raises questions about the activities of Indian foreign intelligence services and their role in international affairs.