Another layer of control

The article presents a critical examination of the Pakistani establishment’s increasing control over civilian state institutions through newly introduced intelligence and security mechanisms. This shift toward a ‘hard state’ model is exemplified by the creation of the National Intelligence Fusion and Threat Assessment Centre (Niftac), which aims to centralize intelligence operations under one roof. While the initiative echoes earlier, ineffective attempts like the Joint Intelligence Directorate (JID) and the National Intelligence Coordination Committee (NICC), the current optimism stems from the civil-military leadership’s seeming alignment. However, this convergence of power raises concerns about the autonomy of civilian bodies and the historical tendency of military dominance in internal affairs.

The article further explores efforts to enhance coordination at provincial levels, with suggestions for a national-level Counterterrorism Department under Nacta’s umbrella. Yet the gradual replacement of civilian positions by military officials within intelligence bodies has blurred the lines between civil and military jurisdiction. The success of Niftac hinges on its ability to remain focused on terrorism and avoid being politicized. At the same time, reforms in police institutions, especially in conflict-ridden areas like KP and Balochistan, are vital. Without restoring the public’s trust in law enforcement and maintaining the civilian character of internal security, the state risks further alienating its own apparatus.

Overview:

This article focuses on the establishment’s tightening grip on Pakistan’s internal security framework, highlighting a paradigm shift from fragmented governance to centralized intelligence control. The writer raises red flags about the implications for democracy, federalism, and the already frail structure of civil institutions, particularly in counterterrorism domains.

NOTES:

This article provides vision into the civil-military dynamics shaping internal security strategies, particularly in the post-APS context of the National Action Plan (NAP). It also delves into institutional reforms and structural changes aimed at combating terrorism, thus touching upon state response mechanisms, security governance, and federal-provincial cooperation challenges. Aspirants should critically analyze the balance of power, civil-military relations, and the operational effectiveness of intelligence institutions.

Relevant CSS Subjects and Topics:

• Pakistan Affairs: Civil-Military Relations, National Action Plan, Internal Security Challenges
• Governance & Public Policy: Institutional Reforms, Intelligence Coordination, Federal-Provincial Relations
• Current Affairs: Counterterrorism Policy, Strategic Security Planning

Notes for Beginners:

The article discusses how Pakistan’s military is increasingly taking control of internal security bodies like Nacta by establishing new institutions like Niftac. Earlier attempts, such as the Joint Intelligence Directorate in 2016 and the NICC in 2022, failed due to lack of cooperation among agencies. For example, each agency wanted to keep its own data instead of sharing it. Now, with Niftac, the government claims both civil and military leadership are united. However, critics worry that the military’s role might overshadow civilian institutions. In KP, for instance, the government is now replacing some military posts with police in low-threat areas, showing a shift toward civilian control—if properly executed.

Facts and figures:

• Niftac will include Nacta as a wing
• KP approved Rs567.7 million for police modernization
• National Action Plan originally had 20 points, later reduced to 14

To sum up, The article is a timely and thought-provoking analysis of Pakistan’s internal security trajectory. It not only questions the overreach of military institutions but also underscores the pressing need for civilian empowerment, institutional harmony, and public trust in law enforcement. The success of Niftac lies not in centralization alone, but in genuine coordination, professional autonomy, and staying focused on the real enemy: terrorism, not political dissent.

Difficult Words and Meanings:

• Oversight: Supervision or close monitoring (Syn: Superintendence, Ant: Neglect)
• Restructure: To organize differently (Syn: Reorganize, Ant: Disorganize)
• Nexus: A connection or series of connections (Syn: Link, Ant: Separation)
• Friction: Conflict or disagreement (Syn: Tension, Ant: Harmony)
• Encroaching: Intruding gradually (Syn: Infringing, Ant: Respecting)
• Appraised: Evaluated or assessed (Syn: Judged, Ant: Ignored)
• Pacify: To calm or soothe (Syn: Placate, Ant: Agitate)