Top cops review security scenario

Following specific intelligence inputs that Kolkata can be the target of a terrorist attack in the near future...

Following specific intelligence inputs that Kolkata can be the target of a terrorist attack in the near future, top officials of the Kolkata police and other security agencies held a meeting in Lalbazar on Sunday.

The meeting was attended by representatives of all Central and state-level agencies 8212; including the Intelligence Bureau. Senior police officers, including Commissioner of Police Gautam Mohan Chakrabarti and Special Task Force chief Rajeev Kumar participated in the meeting.

According to information provided by security agencies in New Delhi, Tripura and the Border Security Force, a terror attack was expected in Kolkata between November 15 and 30.

8220;Though November 30 is here, we will continue with the security measures because the threat continues. After the Mumbai attacks we cannot take any chance,8221; said Jawed Shamim, Deputy Commissioner of Police Detective Department.

The security forces have intensified vigilance in all underground railway stations in Kolkata and terminal railway stations like Howrah, Sealdah and New Jalpaiguri.

Search operations were also being carried out in inter-state bus terminals in both South and North Bengal. Earlier, officers of the Kolkata police had met hoteliers and asked for the latest blueprints of their buildings. Apart from hotels, other vulnerable buildings were identified which may come under attack. The list includes Victoria Memorial.

C V Murlidharan, Inspector General of BSF South Bengal Frontier, said: 8220;We have increased manpower and patrolling in sensitive areas. Though I cannot share intelligence information with you, I can say our increased vigil will continue.8221;

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Chief Secretary Amit Kiran Deb, however, said they have not received any specific alert from the Centre.

Home Secretary Asok Mohan Chakrabarti also echoed it. 8220;After the Mumbai attacks, the Centre has issued a general warning to all states. But we have not received any specific inputs.8221; He added he will hold a meeting with the Fire Services Department on Monday to discuss measures to tackle emergency situations.

The commissioner of police will also discuss security measures with top hotel authorities in the city.

According to an official, the state government will soon buy a helicopter as part of the new security measures being adopted.

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A senior police officer said the force was equipped to counter terror attacks. 8220;We have commandos, Special Action Force contingents and the newly-formed STF on stand-by,8221; he said.