Abstract

The security of any state remains important and a vital factor for the main key actors of international politics. The rise of terrorism after the American attack on Afghanistan in October 2001 has worsened the security situation of Pakistan to an unprecedented degree. US intervention in Afghanistan has brought a lot of foreign influence in this region but especially in Pakistan because of its special geo-strategic location in the region. Pakistan is facing serious challenges to its security. Ethnicity, sectarianism, and religious extremism are the fundamental variables of internal security threats to Pakistan. This paper argues about internal security threats to Pakistan. The interdependence of these various threats and their overall impact on internal security is the focus of this analysis. Pakistan needs to address and solve these national security threats and find a suitable solution in a reasonable timeframe to find its rightful place in the community of modern nations.

Key Words

Pakistan, Internal Security, Terrorism, and the United States

Introduction

Pakistan's help was basic to the U.S. intervention in Afghanistan, propelled on October 7, 2001, under the name ''Operation Enduring Freedom.'' Pakistan gave the United States access to ports, army installations, airspace, and ground lines of control and Pakistani security powers additionally gave important security to U.S. resources situated in Pakistan. As the United States and NATO created the Afghan theatre, they liberated themselves to some degree from their reliance on Pakistan. Be that as it may, Pakistan remained a critical player in the war exertion since the United States was not able to discover a financially savvy option to truck supplies into Afghanistan over the Pakistani domain. Merchandise was offloaded at the Karachi port and afterward exchanged onto a large number of secretly possessed neighborhood transport trucks for the stumble into Afghanistan, either through the Chaman in Baluchistan or through Torkham in KPK. As the war in Afghanistan drew on, Pakistan additionally turned into an essential accomplice in the automation program, which focused on al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and unified powers in Pakistan which caused internal security threats to Pakistan (Harry, 1998). 




Pakistan Domestic Security Context

It is 2018 and Pakistan seems to be wading through a fair progress. Since its origin as an autonomous state in 1947, it has pursued an example of political organization switching back and forth between non-military personnel what's more, military standards. 34 of 67 years of its history have seen coordinated military rule by four dictators. While these political turning points foreshadow well for Pakistan's future, of huge worry is the nation's almost decade-long direction of equipped savagery and insecurity show in a high frequency of fear-based oppression; military counter-psychological warfare crusades; secessionist rebellion; between confidence and intra-confidence fanaticism; partisan struggle; ethnic turf fighting and target killings; upheld vanishings and claimed additional legal killings; and outside military intercession. The viciousness is boundless and has prompted intense weakness, political unsteadiness what's more, and financial decrease. The patterns in frailty propose that brutality has been consistently on the ascent. The Global Peace Index positions Pakistan among the world's minimum serene nations on the planet since 2004 and proposes that it is among the five states exhibiting the quickest decrease in worldwide serenity. Proof proposes that Pakistan's four regions including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Baluchistan, Sindh, Punjab, and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas have encountered shifting degrees of extended outfitted brutality and unsteadiness in different structures and signs amid the previous decade in all locales, struggle conditions have endured (Shah, 2014).

Musharraf Era

The day of September 11, 2001was a golden chance for the military rulers who seized control from the administration of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in 1999. The US government was not satisfied with Musharraf's government. Military dictators are always looking for commitments to ensure their priorities so it was a time when Musharraf thought to bargain with the Bush administration and help them to invade Afghanistan. In response, Musharraf wanted to improve relations with the Bush administration and he on some points succeeded in this game. Musharraf offered the USA unconditional support for the war on terror and the US attack on Afghanistan. Musharraf was successful in reclamation of aid that had been blocked when Pakistan did the nuclear test back in 1998, (Andrea, 1998) after the successful nuclear experiments of India. It could likewise anticipate long stretches of compensating collaboration in security. Musharraf benefited from this situation. But Musharraf's step created problems for the citizens, especially in tribal areas. (Dutt, 2000) And most importantly the religion Islam paid the price. It has created a negative image of Islam in the whole world. Musharraf's administration totally failed to gain corporate values which can be the source of betterment in people's lives. But due to war on terror and military involvement against it was the only thing that saved the dictator from civilian anger (Harry, 1998).

Pakistan's internal security problems were raised after 9/11 actually. Pervez Musharraf made the decisions not for the country's people rather he tried to maximize his period. Many policies were made against the people's or country's choices which created internal security threats to Pakistan. All terrorist organizations were made stable and many threats were created. There were bomb blasts on a regular basis. According to a report, Pakistan has almost lost 80 thousand lives since 9/11. Musharraf's period ended in 2008 when the Pakistan People's Party won the general election of 2008 after the death of its leader Benazir Bhutto also in a blast in Rawalpindi (Shah, 2014).




Pakistan People’s Party Era (2008-2013)

Pakistan People's Party reign was very vulnerable in the context of Pakistan's internal security condition. There were several bomb blasts at that time. There was also the presence of religious extremism in the country. In different big cities, there were rampant incidences of murders of Ducati. Military and civilian government relationships were never friendly in the history of Pakistan. US operation in Abbottabad to kill Osama bin Laden was another blow to internal security. US presence in Afghanistan has always been a source of disturbance on the borders. This was the sole reason infiltration of terrorists in the country. Pakistan people's party administration skills were not good. But it is true that the Pakistan People's Party is always on the right side when we discuss the enemies of Pakistan. Different terrorist organizations, when they fail to challenge us directly still try to conspire through disharmony. Pakistan army fought against such organizations' bravery on borders as well as outside the borders. Pakistan People's Party was aware of that point this multi-face war could not be handled without the nation's full support. So they politically supported the military. Karachi was also affected by terrorism during Benazir Bhutto's previous government. Benazir also made a committee under Naseer Ullah Baber to control violence in Karachi. Even during Asif Zardari’s presidential tenure, the Pakistan People's Party extended its support and cooperation with the army. Later, the Pakistani People's Party also supported the Zarb e Azab operation. The PPP likewise assumed a key job to expel lawful obstacles in the method for smooth execution to implement the National Action Plan. The dispatch of Operation Zarb-e-Azb, and the foundation of military courts was also the PPPworkregarding internal security. They also allowed more sacred forces to the Rangers in Karachi to battle the fearmongers and their facilitators. Later when the time of the exceptional experts intrinsically allowed to the Rangers arrive at an end the issue of expansion of their forces surfaced (The New York, 2013).

Pakistan Muslim League Era (2013-2018)

After the Pakistan People's Party government, the Muslim League came into government after the 2013 elections. A few months later terrorists attacked an Army Public School in Peshawar and killed 154 children. This was the black day in Pakistan's history. The National Action Plan which was made after the attack was the right step. In this plan, all the leadership including military leadership agreed to end terrorism and its outfits.  It was also promised to make concerned institutions with the help of the state. This plan consisted of 20 documents and it was accepted by all the leadership as well as the whole country. All the stakeholders agreed to counter terrorism and its facilitators. However, after five years almost this plan seems to have remained unsolvable because many other types of terrorism have started across the country. This isn't to undermine the undertakings like Zarb-e-Azb, the military movement in Karachi, and the endeavors being finished in Baluchistan, which unquestionably restored the certainty of a commonplace man indeed into the honesty of security forces, anyway regardless of rehashing suicide impacts, target killings, and reliably rotting harmony condition in Karachi, one is made to examine the status and purposes behind the declining inside security situation of the state (Hamid, 2011).

The issue may not by any means lie in the record itself, paying little mind to whether now and again the people who drafted it will, when all is said in done, fight that it was considered in a scramble and thus may have a lot of break statements. Notwithstanding, the reality of the situation is that the file is, much more than a timetable, plotting what definitely ought to be done on an incite preface in case one needs to avoid Peshawar-like dreadmonger attacks later on. The record clearly raises "what" ought to have been done anyway and doesn't teach "how" to go with respect to it. Being a "Plan" it is typical that it would in like manner contain some line of movement or ground-breaking technique choices for the smooth use of the course of action. How it was made in a surge doesn't hold much help today following three years, which is an adequately satisfactory time for any procedure to be progressed, minded, changed, and upgraded sporadically. Meanwhile, the movement gets out against dread-based oppressor outfits, and huge-scale hangings of the convicts by the military courts ended up being a convincing obstacle until further notice, be that as it may, couldn't absolutely snuff out the aggravation of devotion and mental mistreatment. The need is to burrow promote at the smaller scale level and root out the ace obsession bunches from the overall population, who are found alarmingly in riches among the alleged moderate and liberal stratum of the general populace. This must be refined if the mentality is centered around and overhauled into believing that the security of the state and its kinfolk is the thing that issues the most and stands transcendent even with any ethnic or divided-based division of the overall population. To make sure such a strategy will require some speculation and the results should not be depended upon to be refined medium-term, but instead so far one doesn't see any undertakings or framework being thought up to deal with the psychological piece of this issue. One credibility could be to develop reclamation places for those people, especially the youthful who expeditiously transform into a conspicuous goal because of radical parts. Game plans to give work openings could determinedly improve military assignments. The crackdown against the establishments/madrassah saw to be locked in with spreading and disdain would have been altogether overseen, without any concessions. Incredibly in a continuous unanticipated improvement, the PTI organization has given a gigantic proportion of RS. 300 million to a covertly run madressahDarul-UloomHaqqani, which has in like manner been celebrated for having close associations with Afghan Taliban. Key Taliban pioneers Mullah Omer, Mullah Mansour, and JalaluddinHaqqani proceeded onward from DarulUloomHaqqania along these lines did Asim Umar, the head of al-Qaeda's South Asia part. (Hamid, 2011) Its graduated class was in like manner purportedly connected with Benazir's execution. Such an action makes prompt mischief the plain soul National Action Plan, which clearly precludes the financing of any dread-based oppressor and mental aggressor equipped, and rather searches for the hardening of all of their advantages. The forsaken part is that when investigated for this movement, the limitation pioneer legitimized his manners of thinking and additionally attempted to slap inducing conflicts that it was done just to the best-preferred standpoint of the state, where it is being away to organize such segments into the standard of the overall population. One fails to see by what strategy the insidiousness of dread-based mistreatment can be murdered when its supporters are sitting among the higher echelons of the state clearly drawn in with the methodology-making process. It is like manner includes the route that as long as the sympathizers are allowed to oblige such a relationship, there will be no craving for an unblemished society free from such parts. Such affiliations will continue showing obsession among the youth (The Peace, 2013). The money may be used as bait to attract more fragile identities which can be adequately radicalized also. In what limit can then one even plan to check outside security depreciators who are tried and true on a post? The continuous clarification by COAS General Raheel shows a firm reason why he enthusiastically passes on those go-betweens who won't be allowed on Pakistani soil. Regardless, one is left to consider how one can deny middle people in an overall population which is loaded up with the radicalized mindset that can be misused and may be used at whatever point against one's very own state and nationals (Hamid, 2011). 

Another basic area that is persistently being disregarded is that there is an affinity of refusal and waiting towards the unforgiving reality spreading out before eyes. The state organization has on various events keeping the closeness from asserting ISIS in Pakistan. Regardless, they will by and large ignore that there are countless who are sensitivities and reinforce ISIS's inspiration and conviction framework. As of late it was reported that 3 Daesh people were held in Lahore. Furthermore, LeJ was as far as anyone knows hoping to produce an association with ISIS, before the principal Malik Ishaq was executed last July. Regardless, Pakistani specialists have generally denied that Islamic State has gotten a foothold in the country, nonetheless, there are intermittent reports of catches or butchering of people backup with the social occasion (The Peace, 2013)

Analysis

Since its inception, Pakistan has grappled with a myriad of internal security challenges stemming from historical, political, and socio-economic factors. These challenges have been exacerbated by external influences and internal dynamics, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address the root causes and mitigate their impact on national security. One significant aspect contributing to Pakistan's internal security challenges is the lingering influence of powers opposed to its national policy post-Partition. The legacy of colonial rule and the partition of the subcontinent into two separate entities created a geopolitical landscape fraught with tension and conflict. The interests of various stakeholders, both domestic and international, continue to shape Pakistan's security environment, often exacerbating internal vulnerabilities and instabilities 

The influx of approximately two million refugees following the partition further exacerbated Pakistan's internal security woes. The mass migration of people across newly demarcated borders led to chaos, disorder, and instances of violence as displaced populations struggled to settle in their new surroundings. The challenges of accommodating and integrating such a large influx of refugees strained Pakistan's nascent institutions and exacerbated existing tensions within society.

Moreover, the partition of the subcontinent also resulted in the displacement of communities along religious and ethnic lines, leading to communal violence and civil unrest. The arbitrary drawing of borders, coupled with communal tensions, fueled inter-communal strife and conflict, further complicating Pakistan's internal security landscape. The challenge of managing diverse ethnic and religious identities within the framework of a nascent nation-state posed significant governance and security challenges for Pakistan's leadership (Dutt, 2000).

The shortcomings and inconsistencies in Pakistan's leadership have also contributed to its internal security challenges. The fluctuating policies, governance deficiencies, and political instability have undermined efforts to effectively address security concerns and foster social cohesion. Weak governance structures, corruption, and patronage networks have eroded public trust in state institutions, exacerbating grievances and fostering resentment within society (Koppel, 1998).

Furthermore, Pakistan's internal security challenges have been compounded by the proliferation of non-state actors and extremist ideologies operating within its borders. The rise of militant groups, fueled by geopolitical rivalries and external interventions, has posed a significant threat to Pakistan's stability and security. The nexus between militancy, organized crime, and state-sponsored terrorism has further complicated efforts to maintain law and order and uphold the rule of law.

Pakistan's internal security challenges are deeply entrenched and multifaceted, stemming from historical legacies, political dynamics, socio-economic disparities, and external influences. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes, strengthens governance institutions, fosters social cohesion, and promotes inclusive development. By confronting internal vulnerabilities and external pressures with resilience, determination, and strategic foresight, Pakistan can navigate towards a more secure and prosperous future for its citizens (Shah, 2014).

Conclusion

Internal security is undeniably pivotal for the progress and stability of a nation. Pakistan, since its partition, has grappled with multifaceted internal security challenges that have persisted and evolved over time. Despite efforts to address these threats, new challenges continue to emerge, necessitating a comprehensive and strategic approach to safeguarding national security. The implementation of a robust National Security Plan emerges as a paramount imperative in mitigating internal security threats. A cohesive and coordinated strategy, encompassing intelligence gathering, law enforcement, and counterterrorism measures, is essential to effectively combat the diverse array of challenges facing Pakistan. Moreover, the plan should be adaptive and responsive to evolving threats, ensuring that security measures remain agile and proactive. Central to Pakistan's internal security strategy is the management of its borders with neighboring countries. Given the porous nature of these borders, effective border control measures are imperative to curb illicit activities such as terrorism, smuggling, and illegal migration. Strengthening border security through enhanced surveillance, infrastructure development, and cross-border cooperation is essential to stemming the influx of external threats into Pakistani territory. In tandem with border management, the suppression of terrorist organizations is paramount to restoring internal security. The proscription of militant groups and stringent enforcement of anti-terrorism laws are critical steps in dismantling terrorist networks and disrupting their operational capabilities. Additionally, international cooperation and information sharing are instrumental in combating transnational terrorist threats, necessitating diplomatic engagement and collaboration with regional and global partners. While security forces play a pivotal role in combating terrorism, their efforts must be complemented by a supportive and enabling environment fostered by the government. Instead of exacerbating tensions with the military, the government should provide unwavering support to security forces, equipping them with the necessary resources, training, and legal authority to effectively fulfill their mandate. Moreover, efforts should be made to enhance inter-agency coordination and intelligence sharing, facilitating a more cohesive and synergistic approach to national security. Addressing the root causes of extremism and radicalization is imperative in tackling the underlying drivers of internal insecurity. Religious extremism, in particular, poses a significant challenge to Pakistan's stability and social cohesion. By regulating and reforming religious seminaries (madrassas), the government can mitigate the propagation of extremist ideologies and promote a more tolerant and inclusive interpretation of Islam. Furthermore, investing in education, economic development, and social welfare programs can address socio-economic grievances and marginalized communities vulnerable to radicalization. In conclusion, the pursuit of internal security in Pakistan demands a multifaceted and holistic approach that addresses the diverse array of threats facing the nation. Through the implementation of a comprehensive National Security Plan, bolstered border management, suppression of terrorist organizations, support for security forces, and measures to counter extremism, Pakistan can mitigate internal security risks and foster a climate of stability and progress. By prioritizing national security and adopting proactive and concerted efforts, Pakistan can chart a course toward a more secure and prosperous future for its citizens.

References

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