Special training of cops for hostage-like situations needed: Maharashtra CM

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan on Thursday highlighted the need for specialised training to policemen for hostage-like situations and upgradation of police voice communication network. Addressing policemen from different states at the second National Seminar on Counter Terrorism 2012, Chavan said, "There is a need for standardisation of equipment across the country, upgradation of police voice communication network and specialised training for hostage-like situations."

He stressed on balancing tough legislations with human rights to successfully fight terrorism. "Better security of vital installations and important personalities and a more responsible and efficient media role for better dissemination of information is also required," he said. Integrating intelligence database through better use of technology, better co-operation between agencies and a mechanism for appropriate sharing of information is required, the chief minister said. There is also a need to procure advanced equipment to fight the terrorists who already have hi-tech weapons. He expressed hope that the two-day seminar beginning on Thursday would become a successful annual event to bring together various police forces on a common platform from across the country. Chavan concluded with a hope that the gathering would be instrumental in motivating the police forces to become the best in the world in order to ensure safety of the citizens. The seminar, organised by Maharashtra Police and Bureau for Police Research and Development at the DGP office here, is aimed at developing and forging consensus amongst stakeholders to formulate strategies for counter terrorism with renewed vigour. The Chief Minister was joined by state Home Minister R R Patil and Minister of State (Home) Satej Patil in reiterating the support of the government in the fight against terrorism. R R Patil said the execution of Pakistani gunman Mohammed Ajmal Kasab demonstrated the government`s resolve in dealing with terrorism. The two-day seminar is divided into six sessions which includes themes like - planning, tactics and IEDs in counter terrorist operations and counter terrorism training course in state police. The seminar was attended by personnel from National Security Guards, Central Police and various states` police who shared their experiences, took stock of current strengths and weaknesses and generated ideas to improve institutional response mechanism in the coming years. PTI