Discuss BSF act at NCTC meet: Jayalalithaa to PM

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Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa said on Friday the proposed amendments to BSF Act, 1968, smacked of a “desire to smuggle in a mechanism inspired by the same goals as those behind the setting up of an operations division in NCTC, through backdoor” and urged PM to discuss the issue at the May 5 NCTC meeting.

In a letter, she “categorically” registered her disapproval of the manner in which the subject was sought to be introduced at the April 16 conference of CMs on internal security.

“Members of Rajya Sabha had, as early as on 29th March, 2012, requested that the subject be discussed in the conference of chief ministers. With more than two weeks at its disposal, I am surprised the ministry of home affairs proposed this as a supplementary agenda item,” CM said.

“It was heartening to note that, based on my request, you directed the Union home minister to convene a separate meeting of chief ministers to discuss matters concerning NCTC on 5th May, 2012. Since the amendments proposed to BSF Act seem to have a similar motive, it would be appropriate if these were also discussed at the same conference,” she said.

CM also said no further action on the Bill in Rajya Sabha be taken till views of CMs are heard.