Jotirmoy Roy, AB News, New Delhi: New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced a comprehensive new anti-terrorism policy aimed at deploying specially trained anti-terrorism units across all states. The initiative seeks not only to take action against terrorism but also to dismantle the entire ecosystem associated with it. Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled this policy during an anti-terrorism conference last month, attended by police chiefs and heads of anti-terrorism agencies from various states.
Establishment of ATS and STF
According to sources, anti-terrorism squads (ATS) or special task forces (STF) have already been formed in 18 states, dedicated exclusively to counter-terrorism operations. The new policy will mandate the establishment of such specially trained units in all states, emphasizing the quality and effectiveness of these units. These squads will be equipped with weapons approved by the National Security Guard (NSG) and will undergo training provided by the NSG itself.
Focus on Youth and Radical Ideologies
A significant component of the new anti-terrorism policy is the creation of special units that aim to prevent the radicalization of youth. The government plans for these units to not only take action against individuals who promote extremism but also to reintegrate youths who have been misled by these ideologies back into the mainstream society.
Measures to Curb Terrorist Funding
In tandem with this initiative, the government will also establish special Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs). These units will be tasked with identifying transactions linked to terrorist funding and will work to take stringent action against those supporting terrorism financially.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
The new policy includes the formulation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure timely and effective action based on all intelligence related to terrorism. This SOP will promote greater inter-state coordination to keep a vigilant eye on the activities of terrorists and their networks.
Future Direction
Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs have indicated that discussions on this new policy are ongoing with all states, and it is expected to be implemented at the beginning of the new year. This policy not only signals a concrete step against terrorism but also represents a decisive effort to dismantle the entire network that supports terrorism.
In conclusion, the new anti-terrorism policy is anticipated to facilitate strong and coordinated actions against terrorism in India, aiming to eliminate not only current threats but also to mitigate potential future dangers. With its robust framework and comprehensive strategies, the government seeks to create a safer and more secure environment for all citizens.
