Punjab seeks more BSF troops to guard its border with Pakistan

Chandigarh: Against the backdrop of Gurdaspur terror attack, the Punjab government has asked the Centre to deploy additional Border Security Force (BSF) personnel along the state's border with Pakistan to check infiltration.

Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab Sukhbir Singh Badal on Thursday said he has dispatched a letter 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 the international border adjoining Punjab should have same strength of forces on the pattern of Jammu and Kashmir borders.

The request comes in the wake of terror attack in Gurdaspur town last month. Six persons were killed by three terrorists, who were later eliminated in an operation lasting nearly 12 hours.

"I have personally visited some forward posts of BSF adjoining the border and observed that more personnel were needed to keep a watch along the border," Badal told reporters after inaugurating a shooting range in Mohali on Thursday.

Replying to a question, Badal refuted that there was apprehension of revival of militancy in the state and asserted that maintaining law and order was foremost priority of state.

He said that Punjab was the "most peaceful state and Punjab Police is capable and ready to combat any anti-national and anti-state activities."

Badal also told that Punjab would further strengthen its Special Protection Group (SPG) with a view to meet all exigencies.

"This world class SPU will to be equipped with ultra modern security gadgets, weapons and devices. It will be capable of launching security operations at vulnerable places to keep the law and order situation under control," the Deputy Chief Minister said.

He said the state would also deploy an exclusive and dedicated SWAT squad only for border area. "The SPU and SWAT squads will get the most professional training like US Navy Seal," he said.

When asked about flood-like situation in some parts in the state, Badal said that the situation was under control.

He said that directions for regular review and monitoring of situation have also been issued to all Deputy Commissioners.