Date:11/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/01/11/stories/2006011107171200.htm

National

300-battalion paramilitary force to fight terrorism

Special Correspondent

BANGALORE: The Centre will raise a 300-battalion paramilitary force to counter terrorism, Home Minister Shivraj Patil told mediapersons said here on Tuesday.

It would be given advanced training and provided with helicopters, boats, armoured vehicles and a unified intelligence database.

The country was engaged in discussions with Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and some European countries, apart from the United States and Australia, on measures to check terrorist activities.

The police force would be strengthened with modern equipment and weapons.

The Centre earlier suggested to the States that they draw up their own plans to combat naxalites and terrorism and exchange information with neighbours, besides discussing the issues with the Centre. Mr. Patil stressed the need for setting up a united force and investigating agency to probe terrorist activities.

The Minister said the ongoing investigation would reveal the truth regarding the forged letter, following which Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh's telephone was tapped.

The FIR was filed and investigations were on. "Ultimately the court will decide who is responsible. I do not want to be dragged into it further." He declined to answer questions on the telephone tapping, which he said, was done by a private firm.