NCTC: First discuss the issue in NIC, says BJP

PANAJI: BJP today said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should discuss the National Counter Terrorism Centre ( NCTC) issue at the National Integration Council (NIC) and then take it to the Parliament.

The NCTC issue should be first discussed in NIC (a multi-member body with representation from the Centre, states and various groups besides public figures), before placing it in Parliament, party leader Rajnath singh said.

The proposal to set up NCTC, which will work as an anti-terror hub under the Union Home Ministry, is an example of the Congress-led UPA Government "playing havoc" with the country's federal system, the former BJP President said.

The proposal has attracted strong opposition from the non-Congress Chief Ministers, who have argued that it impinges upon the powers of the states.

Singh, who was here for campaigning, pointed out that nearly one third of the Chief Ministers have registered their protest against the NCTC.

"Even the UPA allies like the Trinamool Congress and National Conference (NC) have expressed their disapproval of the move, but the Centre, showing arrogance of power, is persisting with the NCTC."

He said NCTC should be put on hold till there is a consensus on the subject.