ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the Indian counter-insurgency experience. It argues that India's response to internal violence by organized armed groups has been influenced by the Kautilyan logic of the use of force in order to subjugate violent forces within, but to also ensure that the hand of negotiation is always available in case dialogue is possible in a given circumstance. Kautilya's advice on the use of force, the utilization of bribes, surrender policy, and conciliatory tactics have informed Indian counter-insurgency policy. The chapter elucidates the Gandhian influence on the practice of Indian counter-insurgency as well, especially his belief in the transformative quality of empathetic dialogue. It concludes that both Kautilya and Mahatma Gandhi have informed Indian counter-insurgency thinking and policy. By encouraging and inspiring people to have a better and respectful life, by creating the conditions to succeed, and by being sensitive to unique histories, cultures, social mores, and interests, counter-insurgency actors can legitimately win hearts.
