India must intensify sea route security to throttle nuclear attack

How much is India capable to shield itself against any nuclear attack? There was a time when any such talk was termed as next to insanity but no more. The emergence of Taliban and Al-Qaeda and their successful operations in several parts of the globe has changed the scenario forever. This is a different world and the stance of radical Islam against India (terming it as an infidel) gave a new fillip to the imbroglio. The 26/11 terror attack on Mumbai has added fuel to the fire.

It has been learnt that the assailers on the fateful day had more sinister intentions but the obstinacy and counter attack of India made them finish with that. But, as fresh reports are coming in, a new danger is emerging and it may erupt at any time in India. This is the threat of a nuclear attack and if sources are to be believed, the terrorist groups are trying this way too and are gearing up. It can be said that the experts were speculating of this way and the statement of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Suresh Mehta has hardened their standpoints only. The Indian Navy is apprehending an attack through the sea route.

These fears are not baseless. The perpetrators in 26/11 terror attack made the best use of sea route and carried out the mayhem. The same thing can be repeated again and successfully due to the vulnerability of India at several points. The Chief of Naval Staff said, “The container would be the most likely means for terrorist organizations to illegally transport a nuclear weapon.”

What are India’s vulnerabilities hence? They, as indicated by the Navy Chief, include India's inadequate port security, and the lack of means to scan shipping containers. “The airport security system has been working fairly well over a large number of years. And a similar system for containers would have universal acceptance,” Mehta suggested.

There is no doubt in it that this is urgent and the good news is that the government is realizing this. The Cabinet has approved the unified operation of all maritime security agencies, all of which will now report to the regional Navy boss. But this is not enough and there is the need of more. First of all, India will have to change its fortress mentality. This has ravaged India without a doubt.