Pb Cab clears creation of SOG to counter militant threats

The Punjab Cabinet today approved a proposal to constitute the Special Operation Group (SOG) to counter militant threats in the state.
The SOG will contain, counter and neutralise militant threats such as terrorist attacks, hostage situations and armed infiltration, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said.
The cabinet meeting, 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 neutralise armed aggressors, he said.
It will also minimise collateral damage in the form of loss of civilian lives and damage to strategic assets of the country.

The force would work in close coordination with the police, army, National Security Guard (NSG), Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Intelligence Wing among others, the spokesperson said.
The need of a SOG was felt after the terrorist attacks in Gurdaspur and Pathankot. It was noted that the police had inadequate training and lack of sophisticated units to counter such attacks, he said.
The SOG would have world-class training to tackle such threats and would function as the state's premier and specialised response team, the spokesperson said.
He said that with intelligence reports suggesting plans by militant groups to target the security and vital installations and establishment in the state, the SOG will operate as an effective tool to protect Punjab and its people.