Need for Another Balakot-Like Message to Tackle Terrorism: Former BSF Chief Prakash Singh

New Delhi: Prakash Singh, former Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF), has emphasised the need for India to send a strong message, like the Balakot airstrike, to counter terrorism effectively. In an interview, Singh highlighted the importance of a robust security system and suggested that India's response to cross-border terrorism should be decisive and assertive.

Key Points from the Interview:

• Necessity of Strong Actions: Prakash Singh stressed that repeating the Balakot-like response is essential to curb terrorism. He mentioned that if terrorist activities continue to escalate, India should not hesitate to take stringent measures, similar to the previous airstrike, to deter further threats.
• Security at the Bangladesh Border: Singh also addressed concerns about the changing conditions at the India-Bangladesh border, where issues have arisen due to the continuous influx of illegal migrants and smuggling activities. He suggested that security forces should have flexibility in using force to handle these challenges effectively.
• Role of State Police and Paramilitary Forces: Emphasizing the need for cooperation between state police and paramilitary forces, Singh pointed out that security responsibilities should not solely rely on the central forces. He recommended that state governments, particularly in border regions like Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and Nagaland, empower local police forces to maintain security proactively.
• Concerns Over Increasing Religious Structures: Singh noted the increasing number of mosques near border areas as a potential challenge, like issues observed along the Nepal border. He suggested monitoring these developments closely and adjusting strategies accordingly, which is vital to maintaining national security.
• Recommendations for Intelligence Agencies: Highlighting the role of intelligence agencies, Singh stressed that keeping intelligence personnel away from administrative duties and focused on counter-terrorism efforts is crucial. He warned that any lapses in intelligence could lead to severe consequences, urging continuous vigilance and proactive measures.
• Empowering Security Forces: Singh advocated for granting more operational freedom to security forces at the borders, emphasising that stringent action should be taken against cross-border activities that threaten national security. He reiterated the importance of vigilance against any movements that could risk India's security framework.

Conclusion:

Prakash Singh’s insights call for more robust, decisive action against terrorism and cross-border threats. His recommendations underscore the importance of a well-coordinated security apparatus involving central and state forces and the need for ongoing vigilance and adaptability in responding to evolving security challenges.