Punjab Government on Thursday sought deployment of more Border Security Force personnel on the International border with Pakistan to prevent cross border infiltration.
The demand was made by Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal, who also holds the Home portfolio, while interacting with mediapersons after inaugurating the Mohali Shooting Range.
Sukhbir categorically said that deployment of more BSF personnel on the International border with Pakistan was necessary to prevent cross border infiltration.
“I have dispatched a communiqué to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh for beefing up and deployment of more security forces along the Punjab border to avert any kind of terror strike,” he said.
He said: “I had personally visited some forward posts of BSF adjoining the border and observed that more personnel are needed keep watch along the border.”
The international border adjoining territory of Punjab should have same strength of forces on the pattern of Jammu and Kashmir borders, he said.
On the issue of extradition of militants from foreign shores, Sukhbir said that he would take up the issue with the Union Government.
He also refuted that there was any apprehension of revival of militancy besides asserting that maintaining law and order was foremost priority of state. “Punjab is a most peaceful state and Punjab Police is capable and ready to combat any anti-national and anti-state activities,” he added.
Sukhbir informed that Punjab would further strengthen its Special Protection Group with a view to meet all exigencies. He said: “This world class SPU would to be equipped with ultra-modern security gadgets, weapons and devices that would be capable of launching security operations at vulnerable places to keep the law and order situation under control.”
He said that the State would also deploy an exclusive and dedicated SWAT squad only for border area. The SPU and SWAT squads would get the most professional training like US Navy Seal, he said.
On the flood situation in the state, Sukhbir said that the situation was under control. “Directions for regular review and monitoring of situation have also been issued to all Deputy Commissioners. Work of cleaning of drains is going on war level besides taking necessary steps by authorities concerned,” he said.