Intelligence system has to be strengthened: Mitra

Tekanpur, MP, June 9 (UNI) BSF Additional Director-General A K Mitra today said strengthening of intelligence system in naxalite and terrorist-affected regions could help in controlling their activities.

Mr Mitra told reporters here today that the BSF had presence in Jammu and Kashmir for the past 30 years. It had developed its intelligence system there and it helped in taking action against terrorists.

However, BSF had been removed from Jammu and Kashmir. Its work was now restricted to protecting the borders. Under such circumstances, absence of intelligence system of paramilitary forces posted in internal security prevented information from reaching within time.

Mr Mitra was replying to a question on the Union Home Minister's recent statement regarding strengthening of intelligence system.

On infiltration, he reiterated that infiltration from Bangladesh and other countries could not be stopped completely.

He said infiltration had reduced on borders due to patrolling by the BSF and because of wire-fencing. Last year, more than 5,000 infiltrators had been caught, while 7,500 infiltrators had been caught an year before that.

Mr Mitra said Indo-Bangladesh boundary crossed through various villages, rivers, rivulets and mountains. As such, wire fencing was not possible.

Regarding wire fencing to be completed by March, he said the statement was given on the basis of central construction agency's statement. The work in this regard was progressing fast and would be completed shortly.

Regarding lapse of money received for modernisation of BSF, Mr Mishra said delay occurred due to preparation of schemes. However, modernisation was being carried out at a rapid pace.

He denied there was dearth of sharp shooters in paramilitary forces, especially the BSF.

On the Al-Qaeda CD regarding starting terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, he said he had heard about the CD. However, it didn't appear to be true.

UNI