Zeenews Bureau
New Delhi: Union Home Minister P Chidambaram brought into focus the internal security at the conference of Chief Ministers of all states here on Monday.
Inaugurating the conference, the Home Minister cautioned against losing focus from the internal security, saying the nation continues to face three challenges in the form of terrorism, insurgency in the Northeast, and Naxalism.
Chidambaram stated that the police was one instrument which can help in tackling and winning over these three internal security threats. Noting it was the police which have paid the heaviest price in fighting these threats, the minister asked state governments to provide them with all necessary assistance.
He also expressed concern over the vacant police posts across the country, saying the situation was alarming.
Talking about terrorism, Chidambaram said there had been no major attack in the country since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. He credited better intelligence as the reason behind the improved situation, but cautioned that the threat hasn’t completely vanished.
While mooting the creation of separate cadres for gathering intelligence, the Home Minister said most cities in the country should have quick reaction teams in place to tackle the terror threat.
The minister also made it clear that there was no illusion over the threat posed by Naxalism to India, adding the government was serious in tackling the menace.
Chidambaram further said the Centre will encourage state governments to talk to Naxal groups.
Commenting on the insurgency situation, Chidambaram said while militancy was on the decline in Jammu and Kashmir, the situation in the north-eastern states continues to remain volatile.
First Published: Monday, August 17, 2009, 10:53