DIPLOMATIC MASTERSTROKE: HOW MODI’S FOREIGN POLICY SECURED THE EXTRADITION OF A WANTED TERRORIST FROM RWANDA

By P Mohan Chandran

How does a nation bring justice without an extradition treaty? What does it take to outmaneuver international boundaries in the fight against terrorism? Can strategic diplomacy redefine the global narrative on combating extremism?

In a historic diplomatic victory, India successfully extradited Salman Rehman Khan, a fugitive wanted for terrorism, from Rwanda to face justice. This accomplishment not only underscores India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism but also highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s adeptness at leveraging diplomatic relations to achieve strategic goals.

Despite the absence of an extradition treaty between India and Rwanda, this operation serves as a testament to Modi’s pragmatic diplomacy, bolstered by robust international collaboration and growing trust in India’s global standing.

The Case of Salman Rehman Khan: A Terrorist Extradited

Salman Rehman Khan, a Bengaluru-based radicalized operative, was wanted in connection with a prison radicalization plot allegedly orchestrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) handlers. His escape from India in July 2023, following the unearthing of his role in facilitating explosives and weapons for terror activities, posed a significant threat to national security.

The extradition involved seamless coordination among the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Interpol, and the Rwanda Investigation Bureau. These efforts culminated in Khan’s arrest and subsequent transfer to India — a feat that stands out given the legal and logistical hurdles involved in extraditing fugitives without a formal treaty.

Diplomatic Triumph in the Absence of an Extradition Treaty

Extradition of criminals often hinges on formal treaties, making the absence of such an agreement between India and Rwanda a potential barrier. However, Modi’s foreign policy approach, characterized by fostering bilateral trust and leveraging India’s rising influence, bridged this gap.

India’s proactive engagement with African nations under the Modi administration has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy. By cultivating strong ties with Rwanda, Modi positioned India as a reliable partner, ensuring mutual cooperation even in sensitive matters like counter-terrorism. This reflects a larger strategy of treating diplomacy as a tool for national security.

Rwanda’s decision to cooperate sends a resounding message that it will not serve as a safe haven for international criminals. This partnership not only strengthens ties between the two nations but also sets a precedent for leveraging goodwill and mutual interests in global diplomacy.

A Message to Reluctant Nations

Khan’s extradition is not merely a domestic victory; it is a signal to nations like the United States and Canada, which have been hesitant to act decisively against individuals wanted in India for terrorism. Modi’s success in persuading Rwanda contrasts starkly with the bureaucratic inertia seen in traditional allies when extradition requests are made.

By demonstrating that international cooperation is achievable even in the absence of treaties, Modi’s administration has set a benchmark. It challenges global powers to rethink their approach to counter-terrorism, shifting from selective enforcement to collective action.

Africa: A Key Player in Modi’s Diplomatic Vision

This episode also underscores the strategic importance of African nations in India’s evolving global policy. Modi’s outreach to African countries has expanded beyond trade and investment to include robust partnerships in security and counter-terrorism. Nations like Nigeria, Rwanda, and Kenya are emerging as pivotal allies in India’s quest to ensure regional and global stability.

Rwanda’s active role in extraditing Khan highlights Africa’s capacity to implement a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. This collaboration not only strengthens India’s position but also underscores Africa’s growing importance in shaping global counter-terrorism narratives.

The Path Forward: Lessons in Diplomacy

India’s success in extraditing Salman Rehman Khan from Rwanda is a case study in strategic diplomacy. It reveals the potential of bilateral trust, international collaboration, and leveraging India’s growing geopolitical clout. However, it also underscores the need for:

1. Strengthening Bilateral Agreements: India should expedite efforts to formalize extradition treaties with key nations to simplify future cases.
2. Expanding Counter-Terrorism Networks: Enhancing collaborations with African nations can create a robust framework for combating transnational crimes.
3. Diplomatic Outreach to Hesitant Nations: India must use this success to pressure reluctant countries to act on its extradition requests, ensuring that terrorists find no refuge.

Final Thoughts: Redefining Global Accountability

How does this achievement reshape India’s role in global counter-terrorism? Can Modi’s diplomacy inspire a more unified global stance against terrorism? Will nations hesitant to cooperate learn from Rwanda’s bold stance?

India’s extradition of Salman Rehman Khan is more than just a victory against a fugitive — it is a testament to the power of diplomacy in achieving justice. In an era where terrorism knows no borders, this case is a clarion call for international unity and accountability. Will the world listen?

© 2024. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.