BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha govt is preparing to establish a dedicated anti-terror squad (ATS) to strengthen internal security and ensure rapid responses to terror-related threats. According to Odisha police sources, the ATS will operate as a specialized investigation wing or police station with statewide jurisdiction. It is likely to replace the state crime branch’s special task force (STF), which currently handles terror-related probes.A senior police officer explained that with Odisha having successfully overcome left-wing extremism as per the Centre’s March 31 target, the focus is now shifting towards urban terrorism and warfare scenarios.“The ATS structure and modalities are being finalized and the Special Operations Group (SOG), previously tasked with anti-Maoist operations, will be reoriented to tackle terrorism,” the officer added.Move to boost state’s readiness against terror threats The officer said that while the SOG already has a small tactical unit for urban terrorism, the ATS will be a full-fledged organisation with enhanced manpower and resources. The SOG campus at Chandaka, on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, houses advanced training facilities. On Dec 24 last year, CM Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated a state-of-the-art counter-terrorism training facility and briefing centre there, capable of training 400 personnel simultaneously. This addition is expected to boost Odisha’s preparedness against terror threats. Although Odisha has not witnessed direct terrorist attacks, police authorities remain cautious due to past links between some residents and extremist organisations.
