Editor,
Recent statements from the Chief Minister’s Office and the Deputy Chief Minister for Home Department reveal an unwillingness to acknowledge intelligence failures, even as systemic flaws become increasingly evident. It seems our political leaders are more focused on preparing a salvo of missiles for Assembly debates than addressing the everyday realities and struggles of ordinary citizens. This disconnect is concerning, especially as issues like education are becoming national security concerns—a pattern witnessed not only in India, but also in neighboring Bangladesh and Nepal.
As former diplomat Bah Rudi Warjri aptly remarked at a peace gathering in the State Central Library, failing to address the grievances of aggrieved youth will come at a heavy price.
An overreliance on technical intelligence (SIGINT) at the expense of human intelligence (HUMINT) reduces our ability to understand emerging patterns and prevent unrest. We don’t need bigger budgets or new bureaucratic divisions; rather, we need a vigilant and responsive intelligence community capable of anticipating threats as they arise.
Retired four-star general Eugene Habiger wisely stated, “It is not a matter of if; it is a matter of when.” Only with elevated strategic thinking and proactive leadership can we stay ahead of threats at home and beyond. Sadly, it is doubtful that we have such leadership at present; instead, we seem to have leadership driven by corporate interests.
For those in positions of responsibility, I recommend reading The Need to Lead by Dave Berke, which underscores the importance of taking ownership and leading from the front.
Christopher Laurence Gatphoh
Laitkor Rngi
