Omar Abdullah backs state-centre dialogue on formation of NCTC

Srinagar, Feb 22 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has came out in the favour of having a dialogue with the Central Government over the formation of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

Talking to reporters here, Abdullah said that mutual dialogue between state chief ministers and the Central Government was needed to put a rest on the controversy over the setting up of NCTC to rest.

"I have no doubt that in the days and months ahead the central government will as a result of the recent controversy that has arisen over the issue of NCTC call the state governments for a consultation. I believe that consultation is essential and during the course of that consultation we will share the thoughts of the state government with the centre," Abdullah added.

Several state governments, including the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which is the second largest in the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance Government (19 Members of Parliament), joined the chorus against what is being seen as an attempt to infringe upon state's rights.

The main task of the NCTC would be to ensure that the wide variety of security organizations in the country work in tandem, at least on issues related to terrorism.

It will also have the power to seek information, including documents, reports, transcripts, and cyber information from any agency, including from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), National Investigation Agency, National Technical Research Organization, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and all seven central armed police forces including the National Security Guard (NSG).

The body, which will function under the Intelligence Bureau, has been given its own operational wing with powers to arrest and conduct searches under Section 43A of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. (ANI)