Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau.
Rudrapur: In a bid to strengthen intelligence-sharing and curb rising criminal activities, the Udham Singh Nagar police have taken a proactive step by modernizing the State Multi Agency Center (SMAC). This initiative, part of a nationwide effort, aims to counter growing threats from Maoist and Khalistani elements, as well as recent instances of terrorist activities, in this strategically sensitive region known as the gateway to Kumaon.
The SMAC, operational across the country, enables seamless coordination among 26 intelligence agencies, including the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). By modernizing and integrating these agencies, SMAC facilitates real-time information sharing, ensuring prompt action during emergencies.
“This center addresses the delays that previously occurred when national and state agencies tried to coordinate during crises. With SMAC, intelligence sharing is now instantaneous,” said Manikant Mishra, SSP, Udham Singh Nagar.
District’s strategic location has made it vulnerable to extremist activities. In the 1990s, Khalistani extremism posed a significant challenge in the Terai region. Although it was curtailed, its resurgence through internet platforms has been alarming. Last year, police identified over 111 individuals in the district who engaged with pro-Khalistan content online and counseled them.
Maoist activities also plagued the Terai Bhabar region post-Uttarakhand’s statehood, with incidents reported in areas like Nanakmatta, Sitarganj, and Haldwani. Over the past decade, several absconding Maoists with bounty on their heads have been arrested in Kumaon.
Terrorist activities have further underscored the district’s security challenges. In 2020, Al Qaeda agent Inamul Haq, who had previously resided in Pantnagar, was arrested in Bareilly. In 2022, Pakistan-linked terrorist Sukhpreet Singh sought refuge in Bazpur and Kelakhera. His aides were arrested, though he remains absconding. Similarly, in 2023, terrorists Jagjit Singh and Naushad were apprehended for plotting attacks in the region.
The SMAC in Udham Singh Nagar is expected to play a pivotal role in tackling such threats, empowering local intelligence units, and strengthening national security frameworks. “With SMAC, we can share and act on intelligence more effectively to prevent crimes and terrorism,” added Mishra.
