Panel calls for action against ‘individual’ with ‘criminal links’
NEW DELHI: A high-powered inquiry committee set up by the Indian government to investigate the ‘illegal’ activities flagged by US authorities recommended immediate legal action against an individual whose past criminal associations and activities surfaced during the probe.
The panel was set up in November 2023 in response to intelligence shared by the United States regarding activities of organised criminal groups, terrorist networks, and drug syndicates undermining the security interests of both nations. Besides investigating the activities flagged by US authorities, the initiative also aims to bolster bilateral security cooperation.
The cooperation between India and the US on security issues has become much more pronounced in recent years, especially in fighting transnational crimes and terrorism.
The joint intelligence pointed to the involvement of organised groups exploiting global networks for illegal activities and raised concerns over potential threats to national security in both countries.
The committee pursued leads provided by its American counterparts, conducted independent investigations, and examined officials across various agencies with full cooperation from US authorities. Several visits and exchanges of information between the two nations facilitated the inquiry.
After a close examination of documents and testimonies, the committee submitted its report to the Indian government. It recommended immediate legal action against an individual whose past criminal associations and activities surfaced during the probe. The report emphasised that legal proceedings against the individual must be completed without delay to set a strong precedent.
Besides, the committee recommended systemic reforms that would ameliorate India’s capacity to address threats from organised crime and securities. That includes further coordination of domestic agencies concerned with security, sustained well-defined systematic controls, and new, better responses with faster effect.
The findings indicate the need for continued collaboration between India and the United States to counter global security challenges.
The recommended functional improvements are to reinforce India’s preparedness and responsiveness to complex transnational threats.
The government is expected to act on the recommendations speedily, taking into account both legal action and systemic upgrades to ensure national security interests.
