Kolkata: Bengal STF has set up a State Terror Monitoring Grid to track, detect, and break up extremist networks across the state. The grid will work as a central system for counter-terror operations, keeping real-time digital records related to suspects, funding, illegal arms, and incidents.
The ‘Terror Suspect Database’ will include details of people suspected of terror links, including those who are currently active, were active earlier, or have been radicalized while the ‘Terror Financing Database’ will track hawala operators and cryptocurrency transactions. The ‘Illegal Arms Database’ will map weapons traffickers and the ‘Explosives Incidents Database’ will store forensic details from past blast cases.
The grid is part of a new standard operating procedure prepared for law enforcement agencies in the state.
The officer said the SOP gives a clear framework for the STF, district police, and commissionerates to prevent activities that may threaten the security of Bengal and India. This comes after the introduction of Section 113 in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which defines and punishes terrorist acts.
Under the new protocol, any case registered under Section 113 of the BNS or the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act must be reported to the National Investigation Agency within 24 hours.
Only an officer of the rank of SP or above can decide whether an offence should be booked under these laws.
The STF will hold quarterly coordination meetings with central agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau, NIA, BSF, and NCB.