During an urgent crisis, the Prime Minister's residence buzzed with high-stakes discussions. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Prime Minister, convened an emergency meeting with top defense and security experts, including the Defense Minister, Home Minister, and senior military officials. The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation and urgency as the officials gathered to address the escalating security threat.
Detailed Discussion
Presentation of Findings: The RAW Chief commenced the meeting with a comprehensive presentation of the findings from the Specter operation. Utilizing a detailed array of maps, charts, and data, the Chief illustrated the expansive network of terrorist operatives identified across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal. This presentation revealed a staggering 1,135 individuals involved, with 81 categorized as high-ranking operatives (S and SSS levels), reflecting their significant threat to national security.
Operational Challenges: The Chief detailed the operational challenges faced in addressing this threat. The extensive network of operatives was deeply embedded, with robust communication and operational cells making containment and neutralization complex. The necessity for a specialized force capable of both advanced intelligence gathering and rapid intervention was emphasized.
Proposal for SHIELD: In response to these challenges, the RAW Chief proposed the creation of a new force named SHIELD—Specialized High-Intensity Emergency Intervention and Liaison Division. This force would serve multiple critical functions:
Rapid Response: Address immediate terrorist threats and incidents.
Coordination: Work in close cooperation with RAW and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to enhance overall counter-terrorism efforts.
High-Priority Operations: Execute targeted operations as dictated by national security needs.
Operational Powers and Scope: The proposal included the detailed powers and scope of SHIELD:
Arrest Authority: SHIELD would possess the authority to arrest individuals regardless of their position or rank, except for heads of state, heads of nation, heads of departments, and defense forces. Arrests involving these high-ranking officials would require explicit permission from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).
Integration with Existing Agencies: SHIELD would operate in concert with RAW and NIA, filling gaps in current security frameworks and enhancing the country's counter-terrorism capabilities.
Strategic Considerations: The Defense Minister, Home Minister, and other senior officials engaged in a discussion about the strategic implications of SHIELD. Key points included the integration of SHIELD into existing security structures, the recruitment and training process, and the logistical and equipment needs. They discussed the importance of ensuring SHIELD's operations would complement and reinforce existing counter-terrorism efforts.
Decision and Authorization: After extensive deliberation, the Prime Minister and the officials agreed on the necessity of SHIELD. They authorized the immediate initiation of recruitment, training, and equipment procurement. The officials recognized the importance of SHIELD's mandate to operate with significant authority while maintaining checks and balances through the PMO's oversight.
Next Steps: The meeting concluded with a commitment to expedite the formation and operationalization of SHIELD. The officials tasked relevant departments with implementing the plan and closely monitoring progress to ensure SHIELD's effective integration into India's national security framework.
The meeting set in motion the establishment of SHIELD, a new force with the mandate to tackle emerging threats with precision and authority, working alongside RAW and NIA to safeguard India's security.
The formation of SHIELD, the newly proposed counter-terrorism force, became a top priority following the emergency meeting. The goal was to quickly establish a force capable of addressing the imminent security threats identified by RAW and providing robust support to national security efforts. The full establishment and operational readiness of SHIELD were set for May 2003.
Detailed Formation Process
SHIELD's Full Form and Mandate:
Full Form: Specialized High-Intensity Emergency Intervention and Liaison Division
Mandate: SHIELD was designed to be a specialized counter-terrorism unit tasked with rapid response, high-priority operations, and coordination with RAW and NIA. Its primary functions included intervening in critical situations, gathering intelligence, and executing high-stakes missions.
Recruitment and Selection:
Target Profile: SHIELD's personnel were selected from a diverse pool, including the army, paramilitary forces, police departments, and central forces. The selection criteria focused on candidates with proven records of excellence in security and intelligence operations.
Initial Recruitment: Approximately 15,000 personnel were chosen for the initial cadre. This selection process included rigorous vetting, background checks, and assessments to ensure candidates were suited for the specialized tasks SHIELD would undertake.
Training and Preparation:
Training Duration: The selected personnel underwent an extensive training program lasting 6 months. This program was designed to equip them with advanced counter-terrorism skills, tactical proficiency, and operational readiness.
Training Components: The training included:
Advanced Combat Techniques: Specialized training in close-quarter combat, urban warfare, and advanced weaponry.
Intelligence and Surveillance: Training in advanced surveillance techniques, intelligence gathering, and cyber operations.
Coordination and Liaison: Exercises in working effectively with RAW and NIA, including joint operations and information sharing.
Operational Integration:Coordination with RAW and NIA: SHIELD was integrated into the existing national security framework, working in close collaboration with RAW and NIA. This integration was designed to ensure seamless coordination and enhance the overall effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts.
Operational Authority: SHIELD was granted significant operational authority, including the power to arrest individuals involved in terrorist activities, except for those at the highest levels of government and military. Arrests involving these high-ranking officials required explicit permission from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).
Headquarters and Infrastructure:
Headquarters Location: SHIELD's headquarters was established in New Delhi, strategically located near the border of Uttar Pradesh to facilitate swift response to security threats across northern India.
Infrastructure Setup: The facility included state-of-the-art command and control centers, training facilities, and operational support units. It was equipped with advanced technology and communication systems to support SHIELD's mission.
Initial Operations and Equipment:
Order Placement: SHIELD placed an order with Anant Defence Limited for firearms, equipment, and specialized gear required for their operations. This included advanced weaponry, surveillance equipment, and protective gear.
Delivery Schedule: The equipment and gear were scheduled for delivery in phases to align with the training and operational readiness of SHIELD personnel.
Public and Governmental Announcement:
Official Announcement: The formation of SHIELD was officially announced by the Prime Minister in a press conference, highlighting its role in enhancing national security and its coordination with existing agencies.
Public Awareness: The announcement included information about SHIELD's mission, objectives, and its role in safeguarding India from emerging threats. The media was briefed to ensure accurate and supportive coverage.
By May 2003, SHIELD was fully established and operational, ready to undertake its critical role in India's national security framework. The force was poised to enhance the country's counter-terrorism capabilities, working in close collaboration with RAW and NIA to address and neutralize threats effectively.