Search for A Safer World

The world has become a more difficult place to live in.

Though terrorist violence had been causing anxiety and concern for quite some time, the events of 9/11 added a new dimension to the problem and led to more significant developments. Whether Osama bin Laden is leading it or not, Al Qaeda has turned into a "movement" with sinister implications for security professionals. Working in smaller units, independently or semi-independently, and in apparently decentralised fashion, all terrorists would seem to have become 'Islamist' with the same motivation, the common refrain being strongly anti-American. The situation in India is, however, different. Here it is to "free" the "susppressed" Muslim brethren.

Be that as it may, Dr. A.Q. Khan's confession has made all those concerned for world peace sit up. The spectre of nuclear proliferation and nuclear technology falling into the hands of the terrorists is looming large before the mankind. The blame game has already started. Security and strategy analysts feel the last word in this 'charade' has not yet been heard. What is the 'deal' between the United States and Pak President over the Khan issue? Why has there not been as much international uproar or protests as would have seemed appropriate? Why is no universal condemnation or a UN resolution calling for thorough investigation and deterrent action? According to some, the US and India, having invested so much in Pervez Musharraf are alleged to have developed a 'vested interest' in 'protecting' him. The US has since proposed an omnibus nuclear umbrella package for all.

We shall certainly hear more on this in times to come. The moot issue is: is not all this self-destructive? Who will survive if the nuclear battle, even if in trial mode, once starts? And even if one wins or survives, will it then be worth living on this planet? One, therefore, fancies to question whether the plans being formulated for flights to Moon and then on to Mars are for scientific exploration or to find out whether they will provide a safer place to colonise and live in.

Friends and well-wishers are requested to pause for a while and ponder over what lies ahead of us and how we, those in security profession in particular, should react. IISSM will gratefully publish your thoughts if you would be kind to share those for the benefit of all.

D.C. Nath, IPS (Retd.)
Executive President & CEO,
International Institute of Security and Safety Management,
New Delhi, INDIA.