Union Home Minister Amit Shah has announced that the Indian government is on the verge of launching a comprehensive national counter-terrorism policy to combat the evolving threat of terrorism. This strategy will not only focus on tackling terrorist activities but also aim to dismantle the underlying support networks that keep these threats alive. Shah emphasized the significance of cooperation between state and central agencies, highlighting the necessity of breaking down traditional jurisdictional boundaries, since terrorism is an issue that defies geographical limits.
Speaking at a high-profile anti-terrorism conference, which brought together police chiefs and top security officials, Shah detailed the proposed strategy's key aspects. Central to the government's vision is the development of model Anti-Terrorism Squads (ATS) and Special Task Forces (STF) that states can customize based on their specific needs. These units will provide a unified operational framework, ensuring effective collaboration across different regions and security agencies. Shah assured that while this system introduces a new level of standardization, it won’t infringe upon the constitutional rights of states or reduce their autonomy.
Reflecting on the significant progress made under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration, Shah cited a 70% reduction in terror incidents since 2014 and a remarkable decrease in the operational lifespan of terrorists, which has shrunk from years to mere days. He attributed this success to the government's decisive measures and "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism, a stance that has gained widespread international recognition.
The minister also highlighted recent legislative efforts aimed at empowering law enforcement. Key legal amendments, such as expanding the jurisdiction of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to include cross-border terror cases, have played a pivotal role. Additionally, changes to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) have enabled the confiscation of properties linked to terrorist activities and the designation of individuals as terrorists. The NIA, leveraging these laws, boasts an impressive conviction rate of around 95% in terror-related cases.
Shah urged state police forces to leverage these legal tools and enhance intelligence-sharing networks. He pointed to the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) as a vital platform, now augmented to tackle emerging threats like cyber terrorism, narco-terrorism, and the use of drones by terror groups. By embracing technological advancements and fostering young officers' expertise, Shah believes India's security apparatus can stay ahead of the curve.
Beyond domestic measures, Shah emphasized India's growing commitment to international cooperation in counter-terrorism. This includes strategic alliances and information sharing with other nations to prevent terror financing and cross-border threats.
The conference itself served as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas and practices among various security agencies. Topics such as international legal cooperation, advancements in forensic technology, and counter-strategies for extremist recruitment were thoroughly examined. As India marches towards its 2047 development goals, Shah underscored the essential role of a resilient and coordinated security system in achieving a strong and prosperous nation.
This policy announcement marks a decisive step in India's long-standing battle against terrorism, and with a clear emphasis on unity and technology-driven solutions, it represents a forward-looking approach to national security.
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