Context:

•  On May 9, 2023, there were attacks on military installations and political unrest in Pakistan. 

Scale of Violence in Pakistan:

• Activists from the youth wing of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and unidentified troublemakers protested against the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran  Khan.
•  The general Headquarters of the Pakistan Army in Rawalpindi, a field office of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in Faisalabad, and the residence of the Corps Commander in Lahore were targeted and damaged. 

National Security Implications for India

1. Political and Economic Meltdown: 
   • Border Instability: The potential for increased infiltration attempts and border tensions between India and Pakistan due to chaos and social unrest.
     • For example: Rise in terrorist activities across the India-Pakistan border.
   • Refugee Influx: The Possibility of a large number of refugees in India as a result of the economic and political turmoil in Pakistan, posing security and  humanitarian challenges.
     • For example: Similar situations in the past when many Kashmiri Pandits had to leave the Kashmir Valley in the late 1980s.
2. Security of Pakistan’s Arsenal: 
   • Unauthorized access:  Concerns about the safety and security of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons and materials during a period of instability.
   • Proliferation Risks: The Potential for unauthorized sharing of nuclear technology or materials which can impact regional and global security.
3. Terrorist Organisations Exploiting Chaos:
   • Terrorist Nexus: Active terrorist organizations in Pakistan, such as TTP, can take advantage of prevailing chaos and instability.
     • For Example: Collaboration of  TTP and Afghan Taliban
   • Acquisition of WMD: Increased risk of terrorist organizations to acquire Weapons of Mass Destruction.
4. Pakistan’s Nuclear Command and Control System:
   • Robust Safeguards: Pakistan claims to have a strong system to ensure the safety of nuclear assets.
   • Organizational Structure: Overview of key institutions within the nuclear command and control system.

Discord within the Pakistani Army:

• Leadership Fissures: Growing perception of divisions at the leadership level of the Pakistani army due to prolonged disagreements.

Policy Recommendations for India:

• Exercise Caution: Maintain a cautious approach and remain vigilant to protect the interests of India.
• Strengthen Border Security: Enhance Border security measures including surveillance, intelligence.
• Engage Diplomatically: Actively participate in diplomatic efforts to promote regional stability and peace building initiatives.

News Source: Times of India