Union Home Minister Amit Shah has inaugurated the third Anti-Terror Conference in New Delhi, where intelligence and investigation agencies have convened to discuss prevailing and emerging threats to national security. This gathering encompasses crucial discussions surrounding the funding and violent activities attributed to pro-Khalistani extremists (PKEs) who operate from foreign territories.

This exclusive two-day event has drawn participation from a comprehensive spectrum of federal intelligence agencies, including the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), state Anti-Terror Squads (ATSs), the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), among others.

The Anti-Terror Conference serves as a forum for these agencies to collectively address pressing concerns related to terrorism and its multifaceted challenges. By fostering cooperation and sharing intelligence, the aim is to enhance the nation's counterterrorism strategies and capabilities.

This initiative underscores the government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding national security and combating terrorism in all its forms. The event's focus on pro-Khalistani extremists highlights the government's determination to counteract threats originating from foreign soil, which pose a significant risk to the nation's stability and security.

Before going to the event, Amit Shah said on X, “The Modi government is firmly committed to rooting out terrorism from the country. Will inaugurate the 3rd anti-terror conference hosted by NIA in New Delhi today and illustrate Modi Ji’s vision behind the policy of zero tolerance for terrorism adopted by our nation”.

Individuals familiar with the conference's agenda have disclosed that it will encompass a broad array of critical topics. In addition to addressing the issues of pro-Khalistani extremists (PKEs), gangsters, and Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, the discussions will extend to various other areas of concern.

One such concern is the Chinese funding of fintech companies, which has raised alarms due to potential implications for national security. Additionally, the smuggling of drugs through maritime routes, a matter of utmost significance, will be deliberated upon.

Cybercrimes targeting critical infrastructures are another pivotal aspect of the conference's agenda. Given the increasing reliance on digital technology, safeguarding these essential facilities from cyber threats is paramount.

The use of digital currencies by terrorists will be a focal point, acknowledging the evolving landscape of illicit financing methods. Furthermore, the conference will address persistent challenges such as the insurgency in the northeastern region and left-wing extremism (LWE).

Among the diverse array of topics to be explored, the conference will also delve into matters like unfenced land borders, mass agitations, the presence of overstaying foreigners, and the activities of radical organizations.

Notably, the issue of PKEs and gangsters based in Canada, who have found shelter in that country, has sparked a diplomatic standoff between New Delhi and Ottawa. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is actively investigating several cases concerning the nexus between PKEs and gangsters. These investigations have revealed that approximately two dozen wanted individuals are operating from Canadian soil, perpetrating attacks on the Indian high commission and consulates, issuing threats to the Hindu community, and orchestrating terror attacks and targeted killings in India.

Image source: Indian Express