Punjab approves setting up SOG to check militant threats

The Punjab cabinet on Friday approved the creation of a Special Operations Group (SOG) to check militant threats.

According to a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office, "the SOG will contain, counter and neutralize militant threats like fidayeen attack, hostage situations and armed infiltration to save precious lives and properties".

The SOG, which will be part of the Punjab Police, will have non-fiscal incentives for those personnel who join the new force.

The cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, discussed the advantages of setting up the SOG, which would help respond effectively, adequately and in the least possible time to neutralize armed aggressors.

Triggered by the Gurdaspur and Pathankot fidayeen attacks in July 2015 and January 2016 respectively, the need to create the SOG was felt by the state government on account of the inadequate training and lack of sophisticated units in the existing police units, the spokesperson said.

"The SOG would have world-class training and the highest degree of commitment to tackle such threats and would function as the state's premier and specialized response team to counter such attacks."

"With intelligence reports suggesting plans by fidayeen groups to target the security and vital installations in the state, the SOG will operate as an effective tool to protect Punjab and its people," he added.--IANS

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