Ajit Doval is one of India’s most influential security strategists. His career spans intelligence, counter-terrorism, diplomacy, and national security. Known for his covert missions and decisive leadership, Doval has played a critical role in shaping India’s defense policies. His journey from an IPS officer to National Security Advisor (NSA) is marked by daring missions and strategic brilliance.
Early Life and Entry into Intelligence
Born in 1945 in Uttarakhand, Ajit Doval grew up in a patriotic environment. His father served in the Indian Army, shaping his interest in security and defense. He graduated with a master’s degree in economics before joining the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968.
Doval’s exceptional analytical skills and strategic thinking quickly caught attention. Early in his career, he was assigned to Kerala, where he handled law and order cases. His ability to defuse tensions through intelligence rather than brute force became evident when he managed a riot without violence. This earned him recognition from the Congress-led government under Indira Gandhi.
His early success led to a transfer to intelligence operations. By the 1970s, he was deeply involved in India’s security apparatus, focusing on insurgencies in the Northeast. His work in Mizoram became one of his first major intelligence breakthroughs.
The Mizoram Mission: Winning Trust, Ending Conflict
Mizoram was a hotbed of insurgency in the 1970s. The Mizo National Front (MNF), led by Laldenga, waged an armed rebellion against India. The situation was tense, with the rebels receiving foreign support.
Doval entered Mizoram as an undercover operative. He built relationships with insurgent leaders and gained their trust. Over time, he convinced several MNF commanders to abandon the movement. His negotiations played a key role in bringing Laldenga to peace talks. In 1986, the conflict ended, and Mizoram became a full-fledged state of India.
His success in Mizoram earned him rapid promotions. He was awarded the President’s Police Medal for his distinguished service. His ability to blend diplomacy with intelligence operations became his trademark.
The Sikkim Strategy: Countering Foreign Influence
In the 1970s, Sikkim was a strategically important region. The ruling monarchy had ties with foreign powers, making India cautious. Doval was tasked with monitoring the situation and ensuring Sikkim’s peaceful integration into India.
He played a role in countering external interference and supporting local leaders who favored India. Through political maneuvering and intelligence gathering, India successfully merged Sikkim as its 22nd state in 1975.
This operation highlighted Doval’s ability to handle delicate political situations. His understanding of geopolitics made him a key asset in future assignments.
Undercover in Pakistan: A Deadly Game of Espionage
One of Doval’s most daring missions was his undercover operation in Pakistan. For several years, he lived in hostile territory, gathering critical intelligence. He disguised himself as a local and navigated the country’s security networks.
During this period, India and Pakistan were engaged in a nuclear arms race. Doval’s intelligence helped India counter Pakistan’s advancements. His reports on terror networks provided valuable insights to Indian security forces.
Despite the risks, Doval remained undetected. His ability to operate in enemy territory demonstrated his exceptional skills in espionage. His work significantly strengthened India’s strategic defense against cross-border threats.
Punjab Insurgency: Operation Black Thunder
The 1980s saw rising militancy in Punjab, with Khalistani extremists demanding a separate state. The situation escalated with Operation Blue Star in 1984. Tensions grew when militants again occupied the Golden Temple in 1988.
Doval played a crucial role in Operation Black Thunder. He went undercover, posing as an ISI agent to gain access to the militants. His intelligence allowed security forces to execute a precise operation. Unlike Operation Blue Star, this mission ended with minimal bloodshed.
This success restored India’s control over Punjab and significantly weakened the Khalistani movement. Doval’s psychological tactics and intelligence-gathering methods became legendary in security circles.
Diplomatic Role: London Posting and Global Influence
In 1992, Doval was posted to the Indian High Commission in London. His role involved diplomatic security and intelligence coordination. He monitored extremist activities, including Khalistani groups operating from abroad.
During this period, global security dynamics were shifting. The collapse of the Soviet Union, rising terrorism, and geopolitical realignments posed new challenges. Doval’s experience made him a key player in shaping India’s responses to global threats.
His tenure in London expanded his international network. He engaged with intelligence agencies worldwide, strengthening India’s global security partnerships.
IC-814 Hijacking: Negotiating in Kandahar
In December 1999, Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 was hijacked by terrorists linked to Harkat-ul-Mujahideen. The hijackers diverted the plane from Nepal to Kandahar, Afghanistan. The Taliban-controlled region made negotiations extremely difficult.
Doval was part of the high-level negotiating team. He engaged with the hijackers and Taliban representatives to secure the release of hostages. Eventually, India agreed to release three militants in exchange for the passengers’ safety.
The incident exposed weaknesses in India’s counter-terrorism response. Doval later advocated for stronger security policies to prevent such situations. This event also highlighted his ability to handle crisis negotiations under extreme pressure.
Post-Retirement Contributions: Intelligence Reforms
Doval retired as Director of the Intelligence Bureau in 2005. However, his influence on national security continued. He worked on intelligence reforms and founded the Vivekananda International Foundation. This think tank focused on security, governance, and strategic affairs.
His research on black money and corruption influenced public debates. His reports contributed to the growing demand for economic reforms. He also played a role in shaping counter-terrorism policies through his advisory work.
National Security Advisor: A New Era
In 2014, Doval was appointed as India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His appointment marked a shift in India’s security approach.
Key Operations as NSA
- Iraq Rescue Mission (2014):
When ISIS captured Indian nurses in Iraq, Doval led a covert operation. His diplomatic and intelligence efforts ensured their safe return. - Myanmar Surgical Strike (2015):
After Naga insurgents ambushed Indian soldiers, Doval coordinated a cross-border strike. Indian forces successfully eliminated the threats. - Balakot Air Strikes (2019):
Following the Pulwama attack, Doval played a key role in planning India’s airstrikes in Pakistan’s Balakot region. - Jammu and Kashmir (2019):
He oversaw security arrangements during the revocation of Article 370. His strategies helped maintain stability despite tensions.
Challenges and Controversies
Doval’s influence has not been without criticism. Some opposition leaders have questioned his proximity to the ruling government. Allegations about his sons’ business dealings also sparked controversy.
Despite this, he remains a dominant figure in Indian security. His legal battles against defamation claims reflect his firm stance on protecting his legacy.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Ajit Doval’s career is a testament to strategic brilliance, courage, and resilience. From covert missions to national security reforms, his impact on India’s defense landscape is unparalleled.
As National Security Advisor, he continues to shape India’s geopolitical strategies. His legacy as India’s ‘Chanakya’ remains strong, defining the country’s approach to intelligence and counter-terrorism for years to come.
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