Times of India 20.07.2009
Rs 100 cr plan to upgrade e-intelligence
Since the post-Godhra riots, police officials have been complaining about the complete collapse of network of informers who tipped off cops about any suspicious goings-on.
This time, the modernization budget of Rs 100 crore focuses on sophisticated arms and software
Besides, there will be budgets for training police personnel in marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and setting up new bomb disposal squads in various districts.
Hasmukh Patel, deputy inspector general of police (planning and modernization), told TOI that a substantial increase has been seen in purchase of modern weaponry and communication devices. “More than 100 carbine, light machine guns and assault rifles have been bought since the blasts. It will be used to strengthen the field forces who rush on the spot. For the same quick action forces, 1,400 new improved bullet-proof jackets have been purchased,” he said.
Looking at the way the bombs were defused in Surat soon after the Ahmedabad blasts, the Centre has decided to set up a proper bomb disposal squad (BDS) in every district. Other cities will be designed on Ahmedabad BDS, who are equipped with all necessary gadgets to dispose of six types of bombs.
“We have formed seven new teams in seven districts with all the equipment, body suits and vehicles to rush to sites. By the end of the year, every team will be fully equipped and ready to tackle any situation. Other forces will also be allocated bullet-resistance vehicles,” said Patel.
A big chunk was allocated to anti-terrorist squad (ATS), city crime branches and special operations group (SOG) the agencies that look after organized crimes and terror threats. From the funds allocated to the city crime branch, its officials set up a call tracking system with support from various cellphone service providers. Ahmedabad cyber crime cell also got a share for modernization and computer forensics equipment.
“The gadgets are just a part of modernization. It cannot guarantee foolproof
security even in developed countries. Thus, we are training police personnel in various tactics and how to combat terror. The state’s own commando force Chetak has also been strengthened with its own vehicles and weapons,” said a senior IPS officer.
