Reddy said the NCTC would lead our nation's effort to combat terrorism by analysing the threat, sharing that information with all partner states and agencies and integrating all instruments of counter terrorism to ensure unity of effort and purpose.
"NCTC will act as a repository of all information relating to terrorism including the data pertaining to the incidents of terrorist violence. It is expected to provide a common platform for integrating, analysing and sharing all intelligence pertaining to counter terrorism," he said.
He was speaking at the Chief Ministers' conference chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here.
Noting that objections have been raised over empowering of the NCTC with search, seizure and arrest, he said these powers already exist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) as amended from time to time including the latest amendments made during the year 2008.
The NCTC, which is expected to deal with counter terrorism effectively, must have necessary operational capability especially in situations where the terrorists are about to strike, escape, flee from the country, he said.
Given the structure and functions of NCTC, Reddy said, it will act as an effective agency for control and co-ordination of all counter terrorism measures.
He also said the apprehension that the Centre is encroaching upon the powers of the States is not based on sound reasoning in the present context.
