Think-tank moots creation of Internal Security Ministry

New Delhi, July 19 (UNI) A Delhi-based think-tank has suggested the creation of a separate Ministry for Internal Security to deal with terrorism and sweeping changes in existing laws.

A policy brief prepared by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) also suggests a national counter-terrorism strategy, a counter- terrorism centre and an anti-terror law to deal with all acts of terrorism.

''There is an urgent need to have in place a National Counter Terrorism Strategy in dealing with all acts of terrorism, including nuclear, biological and chemical,'' says the brief on Mumbai blasts.

The policy should lead to the formation of a ''well-defined, comprehensive and multi-dimensional'' action plan to deal with all types of terrorism, it adds.

The brief suggests creation of a group with different professional backgrounds and expertise to formulate the action plan.

''This should form the core group for a Counter Terrorism Centre within a separate Ministry for Internal Security with an independent Minister,'' says the policy brief.

Describing terrorism as ''an act of war'', the brief says normal laws are inadequate and cumbersome in dealing with acts of terrorism and hence there is an urgent need for a permanent anti-terror law, which is not subjected to dilution for political reasons.

The brief also suggests amendments to the Indian Evidence Act, Arms Act, Telegraph Act, Prevention of Money Laundering' Act, Criminal Procedure Code and Foreign Exchange Management Act.

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