Build links to combat terrorism in Indian Ocean: Naval Chief

Kochi, Feb 23 (UNI) Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Suresh Mehta today said links should be established with neighbouring countries to combat the menace of terrorism in the Indian Ocean.

Interacting with media after inaugurating the 'Chatak Memorial' at the naval base ground here, Admiral Mehta said links should be established with neighbouring nations to facilitate smooth flow of information on subversive activities in the region.

He said the Indian Ocean, with its open narrow waterway, could be a ''hotbed'' for global terrorism as it was used for navigation by both the Western and Eastern countries.

The region had instances of piracy and terrorism due to certain poltical inclinations and organisations, Admiral Mehta noted.

If linkages were established, a country could alert other nations in the region if there was any subversive activity, he added.

He stressed that the Indian Navy was well equipped in thwarting any terrorist activity in the country's waters.

On a question on the danger of terrorist activities in uninhabited islands, Admiral Mehta said this possiblity was there but assured that proper patrolling would mitigate the problem.

When asked about India's aspirations for nuclear powered submarines, he said strategically it was important to have them in the armoury due to their long undersea endurance.

On criticism that the Navy had reacted slowly to the boat tragedy in Ovungal Kadavu in Periyar river in the district, he said he was not fully aware of the situation. The Navy was committed to providing all assistance in emergencies, he stressed.

UNI