Haryana Government Establishes Anti-Terrorism Squad to Combat Threats

Formation of Anti-Terrorism Squad in Haryana

On Wednesday, the Haryana government announced the creation of an Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) aimed at enhancing the state's ability to address terrorism-related threats and incidents. According to the Home Department, the headquarters for this new special force will be located in Panchkula. Additionally, to improve operational reach and coordination, two dedicated ATS police stations will be established. Officials indicated that this initiative aims to promote intelligence-based policing and enhance preparedness against emerging security challenges across the state. The notification stated that under Section 2(u) of the Indian Citizen Security Code, 2023 (Central Act 46 of 2023), the Governor of Haryana has authorized the establishment of ATS police stations in Panchkula and Gurugram to investigate terrorism-related crimes.

Jurisdiction of the Panchkula and Gurugram Police Stations

The Panchkula police station will cover areas including Panchkula, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat, Kaithal, Hisar, Sirsa, Fatehabad, Jind, Rohtak, Sonipat, Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri, Jhajjar, Gurugram, Faridabad, Nuh, and Palwal. Meanwhile, the Gurugram police station will oversee regions such as Sonipat, Jhajjar, Gurugram, Faridabad, Palwal, Nuh, Rewari, and Mahendergarh.

Leadership and Structure of the ATS

Previously, in May, Haryana's DGP Ajay Singhal announced that the state's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) would commence operations on June 1, with an officer of IG rank at the helm. However, the date was postponed, and the official notification was released on June 10. Singhal mentioned that the Haryana ATS would also include two to three officers of SP rank. He emphasized that this specially trained, well-equipped force would handle all terrorism-related cases in accordance with the guidelines set by the Ministry of Home Affairs.