Chidambaram Wants National Counter Terrorism Centre
Suggesting radical restructuring of country’s security architecture, Union Home Minister P Chidambaram has proposed formation of a National Counter Terrorism Centre.
“As the name suggests the goal is to counter terrorism. Such an organisation does not exist today; it has to be created from scratch. I am told that the US was able to do it within 36 months of 9/11,” Chidambaram said.
“India cannot afford to wait for 36 months. India must decide now to go forward and succeed in setting it up by the end of 2010,” he added.
The minister made the remarks while delivering the 22nd Intelligence Bureau Centenary Endowment lecture in New Delhi.
Chidambaram also asked states to hire more policemen and women.
“In my estimate, states would have to recruit over 400,000 constables this year and over the next two years to fill the vacancies,” he said.
Also, he said that there should be 24×7 police control rooms in all districts.
The minister informed that the central government had decided to establish a Nation Intelligence Grid (Natgrid).
“Under Natgrid, 21 sets of databases will be networked to achieve quick seamless and secure access to desired information for intelligence and enforcement agencies,” he said.
The project will be completed in 18 to 24 months.
