Mumbai Terror Attacks: Government fails to keep its word, three years on

MUMBAI: In the period after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, the state government made a number of lofty promises. It set up a high-level inquiry and pledged to improve the city’s security. But, as the events on Wednesday showed, the words of promise remained just that—words.

Soon after 26/11, the state set up a two-member committee—comprising former home secretary Ram Pradhan and former IPS officer V Balachandran—to examine whether there were any lapses on the law enforcement agencies’ part. Its mandate was also to recommend steps to avoid such attacks in the future.

“The committee made 25 recommendations to avert terror attacks and improve law and order. It even suggested a standard operating procedure to deal with terror attacks. Unfortunately, its key proposals have not been implemented,” a senior IPS officer said.

Among other things, the panel advised that the government set up an elite force to tackle terror attacks; strengthen the state intelligence bureau (SIB); bolster coastal security, in particular setting up of police stations in coastal areas; and train officials more in the use of ammunition.

Few of these recommendations were implemented in part or in whole. In 2008, the state appointed 48 officers to the SIB. Most of them, however, quit later. A proposal to appoint 55 intelligence officers is now gathering dust in the home department. Of the 14 police stations proposed in the coastal areas, only about four were set up. On suggestions like more training for cops and a new special industrial security force, nothing was ever done.

“I saw media reports on an elite force and QRT being set up, but it appears to be only on paper. I don’t see them in action,” said opposition leader Eknath Khadse. “I feel the home department is misleading people on the implementation of the Pradhan committee report.”

Khadse added: “Crucial suggestions have remained on paper. As a result, while terrorists continue to attack the metropolis, government remains a mute spectator. It’s not an acceptable situation. R R Patil must act now.”