Islamist Terrorism in India and the World in 2024: Strengthening Counterterrorism Policies

By Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam 31 December 2024 2024 As 2024 Wraps Up, this Summary Analyses The Major Terrorism Incidents Around the World And The Policy Action For New Year With Special Focus On India. It also discusses need for strengthening Counter-terrorism Policies and Plans of Action. ---- In 2024, the world experienced the on-going threat and menace created by Islamist terrorism. By radical ideologies as well as geopolitical tensions that fuel, these acts went on and disrupted the life of a million people starting from ordinary communities in strife-torn areas to those of huge economies around the world. Due to this diversified aspect, deep characterization about such attacks, along with causes, wide-ranged impact, and further measures toward their solution is required. This report digs into the nature of Islamist terrorism in 2024, elaborating on causes, effects, and actions required towards countering such a menace in the international world. In 2024, India continued to face the enduring and evolving threat of Islamic terrorism, which manifested in numerous forms-from attacks like the Bangalore café blast to arrests linked to ISIS-inspired radicalization. While these incidents highlight the immediate risks, they also shed light on broader trends such as increasing use of technology in terror financing, radicalization among youth, and the complex interplay of social, economic, and political factors. This essay explores the major incidents, emerging trends, community approaches, government actions, and potential future strategies to address these burning issues. Key Incidents in 2024 Bangalore Café Blast On 1 March 2024, a massive improvised explosive device (IED) blast ripped through the busy Rameshwaram Café in Whitefield, Bangalore, injuring nine. The incident was later attributed to an ISIS-inspired module active in the area. Investigation found that the attackers had meticulously planned their operation, exploiting local resources and gaps in urban security protocols. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had detained the key accused, Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taaha and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, in April 2024. Both of them were also involved in a foiled IED attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in January 2024, which indicated that they wanted to strike at prominent locations. Their detention has exposed the increasing trend of global jihadist ideologies within local terrorist cells. ISIS-Linked Arrests The year witnessed several operations against those connected with ISIS. In August 2024, Aziz Ahamed was arrested at Bengaluru airport on charges of radicalizing youth and propagating extremist ideologies through secret sessions. His activities aimed to establish an Islamic caliphate in India, reflecting a broader trend of localized cells attempting to replicate global jihadist ambitions. Law enforcement agencies found that these groups were significantly using encrypted messaging applications and cryptocurrencies. This discovery demonstrated the advancement of such networks, as they were no longer merely dependent on traditional funding and modes of communication. Radicalisation of South Indian Youths: Emerging Trends Radicalization among youth in South India emerged as a significant issue in 2024. Extremist groups in states such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala exploited socio-economic disparities, political polarizations, and digital platforms to recruit vulnerable individuals. Secret indoctrination sessions conducted in urban and semi-urban areas revealed how these groups operate covertly to spread extremist ideologies. This trend was particularly alarming because South India has traditionally been perceived as relatively insulated from the more overt radicalization seen in other parts of the country. Such activities in the region highlighted the need for nuanced and region-specific counter-terrorism strategies. Emerging Trends in 2024 Increased Use of Cryptocurrencies Terror groups increasingly used cryptocurrencies to finance their activities in 2024. As investigators probed into the Bangalore café blast case, they found that the accused had received money through Bitcoin transactions and routed them through darknet platforms. This emerged as a serious challenge for law enforcement agencies as they were required to track digital financial flows alongside more traditional methods. The anonymity and decentralization of cryptocurrencies make them attractive for terrorist organizations, but there is a need for cooperation around the globe to devise a framework and tools to monitor these transactions. Radicalization through Digital Platforms Digital platforms, including encrypted messaging apps and social media, became powerful tools for the radicalization process. Through these platforms, extremist groups can disseminate propaganda, find potential recruits, and coordinate activities. The reach of these digital platforms to a wide audience, coupled with the impossibility of monitoring encrypted communications, added complexity to efforts against terrorism. Indian authorities targeted several platforms for hosting extremist content and collaborated with tech companies to delete such content. In this regard, the continuous emergence of new platforms and the changing tactics of extremist groups underlined the limitations of reactive approaches. Localized Terror Cells In 2024, another phenomenon that was experienced was highly localized terror cells, which operated independently but shared an ideology with global jihadist movements, such as ISIS. In many cases, these cells comprised individuals from the same region, which enabled them to be well assimilated into the local community and not easily detectable. This trend seemed to reflect a shift from centralised organisations to decentralized networks, thus making it even more difficult for intelligence agencies to detect and disrupt the groups. Community Approach Civil Society in Counter-Radicalization Efforts Civil society institutions in South India played an important role in countering the radicalization process in 2024. They organized workshops, seminars, and interfaith dialogues to bring the community together and educated young minds about the threat posed by extremist ideologies. Thus, they tried to avert alienation among vulnerable populations through the redressal of socio-economic grievances and a sense of belonging. Educational institutions also heightened their efforts on having lessons that involved teaching students critical thinking, and lessons emphasizing peacebuilding. In an effect, such efforts helped the youngsters receive immunization from being fooled with extremist narratives. Community Policing Issues: Community policing programs aimed at building confidence between law enforcement and local communities were challenging. In areas with high radicalization, individuals were reluctant to work with the authorities due to the fear of stigmatization. Minority communities had mistrust towards law enforcement due to the perceived discriminatory and profiling practices that further complicated these efforts. The police departments, with these issues in mind, began to employ community liaison officers who were trained in culturally sensitive practices. These officers formed a bridge between the communities and the law enforcement agencies, and they fostered dialogue and collaboration. In 2024, the Indian government implemented a multi-pronged approach to combat terrorism. Targeted operations were carried out by security forces, especially in areas such as Kashmir and Karnataka, which neutralized several terrorist cells. Surveillance technologies like facial recognition and AI-powered data analysis were utilized to anticipate potential threats. The two forces coordinated closely, sharing intelligence as well as conducting joint operations. In this way, they could respond sooner and also better counter terrorism measures. Legislative and Policy Framework The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or UAPA, remained the bedrock of India's counter-terrorism law. Although the act gave authorities powers to act quickly against suspected terrorists, it was criticized for potential misuse. Civil society and legal experts demanded greater protection to prevent the act from being misused against minorities and political dissenters. The government also introduced new legislation targeted at the newly emerging threat such as cyber-terrorism, hoax bomb threats, and thus showing adaptability to developing security issues. International Diplomacy India has been trying to engage in diplomatic talks with Pakistan to counter cross-border terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches on the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War called for global cooperation to combat state-sponsored terrorism. India also took part in international forums to call for tighter controls on the flow of funds and arms related to terrorist organizations. Insights and Future Course of Action Countering Socio-Economic Inequalities Radicalization often finds fertile ground in communities grappling with poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. Socio-economic disparities are crucial to be addressed for long-term solutions. The government must invest in job creation, skill development programs, and accessible education to uplift marginalized communities. --- Strengthening Community Engagement Building trust between law enforcement and communities is essential for effective counter-terrorism efforts. This requires sustained dialogue, transparency in law enforcement practices, and mechanisms to address grievances. Empowering local leaders to act as intermediaries can bridge gaps and foster mutual understanding. Leveraging Technology Technological advancements present both challenges and opportunities in counter-terrorism. While extremists exploit digital platforms, authorities can use AI and machine learning to monitor online activities, detect extremist content, and prevent radicalization. Collaboration with tech companies and academia is key to staying ahead in this digital arms race. Regional and Global Collaboration Terrorism is a transnational issue, and the response is not to be unilateral. Strengthening partnerships with all neighbouring countries, especially in South Asia, to deal with cross border terrorism will be the need. Also, sharing intelligence with best practices with global allies will improve India's capabilities on combating emerging threats. The year 2024 marked the pervasive and changing nature of terrorist threats from Islamic terrorism. The Bangalore café blast is evidence of immediate risks, yet digital radicalization signals long-term dangers. It is a collective challenge that requires a wholesome approach combining security measures and socio-economic development, including community engagement and international collaborations. In terms of promoting unity and focusing on root causes, making India more resilient against the threats of terrorism would be assured to give her people a safer tomorrow. The 2024 lesson remains as an exemplar: it was all about complexities of the counter-terror machinery, hence the constant need for sustainability, inclusions, and adaptivity in strategy-making. Islamist Terrorism in 2024: A Global Analysis Islamist terrorism in 2024 took the forms that technology and political vulnerability afforded and exploited. The preferred attack method for terrorist organizations, such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda, was the use of suicide bombs against crowded environments to increase death tolls and spread fear. In other battlegrounds like Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan, attacks were more guerrilla-warfare-based with improvised explosives. Another alarming trend was lone-wolf attacks, primarily in the West. These attackers, usually radicalized online, committed stabbings, shootings, and ramming incidents with vehicles, which were immeasurably more unpredictable and harder to prevent. Cyber terrorism was also an emerging powerful threat, as groups of extreme ideology targeted critical infrastructure such as power grids and financial sectors, destabilizing governments and economies. Mass hostage-taking and organized ambushes, for example, became prevalent in areas such as Africa and Southeast Asia. It is clear that the terrorists have adapted to the circumstances surrounding them in terms of their strategies. These acts disrupted local governance and attracted the attention of the world, which gave the perpetrators more than the propaganda they wanted. Ideological Radicalization remains the centre point of Islamist terrorism. Radical groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and their offshoots corrupt religious teachings to justify their violence and attract followership. These groups use cyber platforms and social media platforms to spread propaganda, enlist members, and coordinate operations, thus creating a global threat that cuts across boarders. Areas in the Middle East, North Africa, and some parts of Asia are examples of **Political Instability** that offers a perfect breeding ground for terrorist groups. Failed states and power vacuums, as seen in Libya and Yemen, provide these groups with safe havens where they can operate, recruit fighters, and plot attacks without much hindrance. Socio-Economic Inequality is also a very important factor that fuels terrorism. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of education in many underdeveloped regions create an environment where extremist ideologies can thrive. Similarly, in Western countries, marginalized communities are socially excluded and discriminated against, making them vulnerable to radicalization. Geopolitical Factors exacerbate the problem, with military interventions and perceived injustices by global powers often cited as motivations for terrorism. For example, the continued tensions in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan provide a narrative for extremist groups to exploit. Additionally, regional rivalries, such as the Saudi-Iranian conflict, further intensify sectarian divides, contributing to instability. Religious Misinterpretations enable the extremist leaders to twist the Islamist teaching; they interpret religious texts partially to justify their activities. This distortion of peaceful principles of Islam creates a wrong narrative that attracts weak minds. Worldwide Impact of Islamist Terrorism in 2024 The effects of Islamist terrorism in 2024 were extensive and far-reaching, reaching nearly every sphere of society, economy, and politics. The most visible impact was: Loss of Life and Human Suffering; thousands of civilians, security personnel, and militants died in attacks, especially in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Survivors suffered life-changing injuries and psychological trauma as many communities struggled to pick up the pieces from the devastation. Economic Disruption was another major outcome. Terrorist acts disrupted tourism, trade, and foreign investment, especially in countries heavily reliant on these sectors. Governments were forced to divert resources toward counterterrorism measures, straining national budgets and limiting development projects. Political Instability was both a cause and a consequence of terrorism. Fragile States, already severely challenged by governance issues are further destabilized. Public dissatisfaction with the failure on the part of the government to prevent such attacks fosters political instability by eroding trust in the government. It only worsened things for social polarization as these attacks increased. Terrorism in the Western world heightened Islamophobia, and divisions between Muslims and non-Muslims only deepened. This is a cycle of alienation and radicalization that is perpetuated, thereby extending the threat of extremism. In countries like Iraq and Nigeria, sectarian violence escalated between Sunni and Shia Muslims, furthering social fragmentation. Terrorism also caused severe Humanitarian Crises, especially in already war-torn and displaced regions. Millions had to be displaced and added to the increasing number of refugees and internally displaced persons. Neighbouring countries and international relief agencies were severely stretched and resources pushed to their breaking points. Regional Overview The effects and nature of Islamist terrorism differed by region, based on local factors and weaknesses. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), ISIS stayed active in Iraq and Syria. It has been noted to repurpose political instability to reconstitute itself and launch guerrilla attacks. Other Al-Qaeda affiliates, including AQAP in Yemen, exploited the continued civil war to expand their position. These groups struck all the military and civilian installations, thereby protracting regional instability. Sub-Saharan Africa saw an escalation in terrorist activities. Boko Haram and its splinter group, ISWAP, carried out large-scale attacks in Nigeria, Niger, and Chad, targeting both security forces and civilians. Similarly, Al-Shabaab intensified its operations in Somalia and Kenya, undermining efforts to stabilize the region and support economic development. In South Asia, there were strong challenges faced by the Taliban's rule in Afghanistan due to brutal ISIS-K attacks against minority populations, primarily the Hazaras. There was renewed TTP violence in Pakistan which targeted the government structures as well as security officials which continued destabilizing the entire region. Europe and North America were threatened by lone-wolf attackers radicalized online. Although several planned attacks were thwarted by authorities, incidents in France, the UK, and the US underscored the ongoing danger of homegrown terrorism. ISIS also left footprints of terror in other parts of Southeast Asia in the guise of local ISIS affiliates which were active, targeting local religious minorities, such as, for example in the Philippines and Indonesia; the border of the region is open and porous so very open to being infiltrated, and their population is heterogeneous. Policy For The Future Strengthening Counterterrorism Policies forms the most important priority set. Governments need to start with intelligence-sharing and coordinated international efforts to trace terror networks and stop the assault. Border security and watch can also help control terrorism and weapons movements. Addressing Root Causes is just as important. Socio-economic development programs focused on poverty and unemployment reduction would decrease the attractiveness of these ideologies. Long-term resolutions to conflicts and greater, more inclusive governance can ensure stable environments that are not conducive to terrorism. Combating Online Radicalization is one pressing concern in the digital arena. Tech companies and the government must collaborate in this regard to monitor and eradicate extremist content. It's also possible to break through extremist propaganda by using anti-narratives, advocating tolerance, and co-existence. Building Resilience in the Community requires equipping grass root communities with skills on early detection and response to counter radicalization. Grassroots activism, interfaith dialogue, and education programs reduce tensions and build stronger social cohesiveness. Rehabilitation and reintegration programs for former extremists and their families are a must to avoid recidivism. Well-tailored programs targeting psychological, social, and economic needs will help individuals reintegrate into society and renounce extremist ideologies. Last but not least, International Cooperation should be involved to defeat terrorism. Multilateral efforts like the UN anti-terrorism programs must be appropriately funded and supported. Regional bodies such as the African Union should also be enhanced in combating terrorism within regions. Conclusion The persistence of Islamist terrorism in 2024 calls for an overall and sustained response. As much as military and security measures are important in providing an immediate response to threat mitigation, long-term solutions need to address socio-economic and ideological roots that are causing extremism. It is in international cooperation coupled with community-based approaches where one finds the best prospects in reducing the global threat of terrorism and building a better and more secure future. ----- A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance journalist. URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-politics/islamist-terrorism-india-world-2024-counterterrorism-/d/134199 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism