Need international legal framework to combat terrorism: Kiren Rijiju

Bali: Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday said that there was need for an international legal framework to combat terrorism. [caption id=“attachment_2806880” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Kiren Rijiju. PIB[/caption] “In order to address the menace of terrorism, a strong international legal framework is the need of the hour,” said Rijiju at the International Meeting on Counter Terrorism. He also said that the nations must expedite finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations. He added, “There is a need for increasing the effectiveness and transparency of procedures for effective implementation and better coherence between various UN counter terrorism structures.” He said that the will and the mandate of international community against wanted terrorists and their organisations must be respected and implemented. “If the world community is to rid themselves of the terrorism, we will have to rid ourselves of the notion of making distinctions between good and bad terrorists.” “No type of terror activity or support to it can be justified on any grounds whatsoever. Only then justice will be delivered for the victims of terrorist attacks,” Rijiju said. He asked for action against those who support terrorists or any terrorist organisation. “A terrorist anywhere is a terrorist everywhere. Those who provide support, encouragement, sanctuary, safe haven or any assistance to terrorism or terrorists must be isolated,” he said. He added: “Strongest possible steps need to be taken not only against terrorists and terrorist organisations but also against those individuals, institutions, organisations or nations that support them.” He said that India has adopted multi-pronged approach to counter cross-border terrorism. “India, which has been a victim of cross-border terrorism for decades. The government (of India) has strengthened border management through multi-tired deployment along international borders/Line of Control and international routes,” he said.