India has launched a new national policy and strategy ‘PRAHAAR’ in the fight against terrorism. ‘PRAHAAR’ stands for ‘Prevention, Response, and Healing Approach to Anti-Terrorism’. This is India’s new national anti-terrorism policy and strategy, prepared by the Ministry of Home Affairs. For the first time, digital threats have also been considered akin to terrorism. These threats include cyberattacks targeting India and criminal hacking. The new policy outlines a strategy to combat terrorist financing through new technologies like the dark web and crypto wallets. ‘PRAHAAR’ clarifies that India does not associate terrorism with any particular sect, ethnicity, nationality, or civilization. Its main objective is to more effectively implement the ‘zero tolerance’ policy against terrorism. This means that if any terrorist attack now occurs in the country, a response will be given immediately under this policy. This policy has set 7 major pillars, ranging from preventing terrorist attacks to international cooperation. Security forces and society will work together against terrorism. Under this policy, states and union territories will be able to enhance the capacity of their anti-terror units. 7 Pillars of the policy… Police will take first action in terror attacks, NSG will arrive immediately 1. Prevention of Attacks: Information will now be shared through the Joint IB Task Force and Multi-Agency Centre within the Intelligence Bureau. Indian security forces will be equipped with advanced weapons and techniques. The nexus between arms traffickers and terrorist groups will be broken. 2. Rapid Response: If an attack occurs, local police will be the first responders. Then NSG and central forces will arrive to assist. Special anti-terrorism forces will be formed in the states. 3. Enhancing Capabilities: All security agencies will undergo modernization and training. The Bureau of Police Research and Development is preparing new training modules. 4. Three New Laws: For the first time, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 have been included in the anti-terrorism legal framework. These three laws have recently come into force. 5. Action on Radicalization: Reduce conditions that foster terrorism. Cooperation with community leaders, religious gurus, and NGOs to protect youth from radicalization. Special programs to prevent radicalization in prisons. 6. International Efforts: Cooperation with foreign agencies through Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties, Extradition Treaties/Extradition Arrangements, Joint Working Groups, and Memoranda of Understanding. 7. Comprehensive Social Efforts: Reintegrating the community after a terrorist attack, increasing civil society participation with the help of psychologists, advocates, and NGOs.
