India’s ‘Israel Model’? From Kashmir to the “Bulldozer Policy” A Growing Strategic Convergence

The deepening diplomatic and strategic ties between India’s current government and Israel are no longer confined to defense cooperation and arms trade, according to analysts. Observers argue that the growing relationship is increasingly reflected in aspects of India’s domestic governance, particularly in policies concerning Jammu and Kashmir, the use of surveillance technology, and the controversial “bulldozer policy.”

In 2019, Sandeep Chakravorty, then India’s Consul General in New York, publicly suggested adopting an “Israel model” in the context of Kashmir. His remarks have resurfaced in recent discussions, with critics drawing parallels between Israeli settlement policies in occupied Palestinian territories and demographic changes debated in Kashmir. Some analysts describe these developments through the lens of “settler colonialism,” a term often used in discussions about Israel’s policies in the West Bank.

Ideological comparisons have also emerged. Commentators note perceived similarities between the “Hindutva” ideology associated with India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Zionism, in that both movements emphasize the idea of a nation as the historical homeland of a particular religious community. Supporters, however, argue that such comparisons oversimplify complex political and historical realities.

Domestically, one of the most debated issues has been the so-called “bulldozer policy,” under which properties belonging to individuals accused of crimes have been demolished in certain states. Critics compare this practice to punitive demolitions carried out by Israeli authorities in the occupied West Bank. Although the Supreme Court of India has emphasized that demolitions must follow due legal process, allegations of extrajudicial property destruction have continued to generate controversy, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh.

Surveillance practices have further fueled debate. Allegations that the Israeli firm NSO Group developed spyware Pegasus was used to monitor journalists, activists, and opposition figures sparked widespread political and legal scrutiny in India. While the government has not confirmed the use of the software, the controversy intensified concerns over privacy and democratic safeguards.

In the defense sector, India has emerged as one of Israel’s largest arms buyers in recent years. Reports have also indicated instances of military-related exports from India to Israel during periods of conflict in Gaza. Supporters describe the partnership as a pragmatic alignment driven by national security interests, while critics see it as a departure from India’s historically pro-Palestinian foreign policy stance.

Overall, India’s evolving relationship with Israel continues to shape both regional geopolitics and domestic political discourse, generating debate over governance models, civil liberties, and the direction of the country’s strategic future.

Source: Al Jazeera