Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Friday said that nearly a decade after the 9/11 terror attack on its main land, the U.S. had achieved a certain level.
Addressing a press conference here, Mr. Chidambaram said: “After the 26/11 attack in Mumbai in 2008, we have also reached some level. We are adding capacity brick by brick with each passing day to our security architecture. It will take time. We are trying to be equal to the challenge. The Railways, cinema hall owners, residents' welfare associations have to be more watchful,'' he added.
He said a detailed advisory was sent to States reiterating the earlier advisory and asking them to enhance vigil against similar terrorist attacks particularly in metropolitan areas and in big towns. He said security arrangements in Delhi were being reviewed and the Delhi Police were instructed to utilise all resources available and ensure synergy among all agencies in emergency response.
About the probe in the Delhi blast, he said preliminary findings of the forensic examination conducted by different teams indicated the presence of nitrate-based explosives and traces of some other explosives as well.
He said the period between August 15 and December-end every year was “very sensitive” as several festivals were celebrated in these months. “The anniversary of the 9/11 and December 6 also fall during this period,” he pointed out.
“This is always a difficult period. We will do our best to secure the people of India. We are doing our best. The police are doing their best,” he said.
While stating that he was prepared for criticism, Mr. Chidambaram said that he had not hesitated to take any decision. “Delhi Public Works Department cancelled three tenders on installation of 32 and then 17 CCTVs at the Delhi High Court after the Delhi Police had recommended it. People must take decisions,'' he said.
Admitting that behavioural change in the police personnel was needed, he made a fervent appeal to the people to be more aware of security requirements. “This is a shared responsibility of the police and the public,” he added.
